This week, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez embarked on an official visit to the town of Chambas in Ciego de Ávila, only to have his agenda overshadowed by a tragic event: a home collapse just blocks away from his planned route.
The pro-government newspaper Invasor reported that Díaz-Canel began his tour at Antonio Maceo Primary School, where 88 students were inducted into the José Martí Pioneer Organization. Yet, the day's headlines were dominated by the collapse of a house occupied by a man and his 13-year-old daughter, which occurred in the early hours in the same locality.
Reports from the Facebook page La Tijera revealed that the collapse also damaged the facade of a neighboring home, housing five individuals: four women aged 55, 37, 18, and 16, along with a one-year-old baby. Local residents claim the collapsed house had been at risk for months, despite multiple warnings to local authorities.
Following the incident, Chambas' mayor, Gladimir Santos López (known as "Pin"), allegedly altered the presidential convoy's path to avoid passing the destroyed home. As part of a broader campaign, the Cuban government is currently emphasizing Díaz-Canel's involvement in promotional events, such as distributing scarves to primary school students in Havana and other provincial schools.
Meanwhile, countless families across the island continue to grapple with the repercussions of institutional neglect and deteriorating living conditions. This incident has sparked outrage among residents, who decry the authorities' lack of response and abandonment in the face of high-risk situations.
Key Questions About Díaz-Canel's Visit and Housing Collapse
What was the purpose of Díaz-Canel's visit to Chambas?
Díaz-Canel visited Chambas as part of a promotional campaign, starting his tour at Antonio Maceo Primary School to induct students into the José Martí Pioneer Organization.
What caused the collapse of the home in Chambas?
Local residents reported that the house had been at risk of collapse for months, with warnings previously issued to local authorities that went unheeded.
How did the local government respond to the collapse?
The mayor of Chambas, Gladimir Santos López, allegedly redirected the presidential route to avoid the site of the collapse.