Cuban actor and comedian Ulises Toirac took to Facebook to issue a scathing critique of the Cuban government, highlighting the negligence, lack of civic engagement, and inefficacy of state policies that have left the Cuban people in an increasingly dire situation.
In his post, Toirac criticized the official rhetoric that places the responsibility solely on the citizens, while a pervasive "superpaternalism" prevents the public from actively participating in economic and social planning.
Toirac argues that the National Assembly and state agencies serve more as formalities than genuine spaces for debate or decision-making, emphasizing the concentration of power within what he refers to as the "Holy Trinity" of Party-State-Government. He remarked, "Plans are 'discussed' (with perpetual verticality) in committees that finalize decisions already made, and each government session focuses more on propaganda than on analytical and participatory planning."
The comedian outlined the consequences of these policies: "Our seas fail to yield fish or salt, our lands don't produce crops or livestock, our industries are outdated and incapable of supplying products, and our service companies fail to meet commitments."
While acknowledging the existence of the U.S. embargo, Toirac contends that blaming external factors for all the country's woes overlooks Cuba's structural issues, perpetuating a "blame others" narrative that fails to provide solutions.
He also criticized the government's repression of those who attempt to voice their opinions, facing only "contempt, defamation, laws, and twisted punitive mechanisms" in response.
Toirac highlighted the worsening social decay, citing deaths, suicides, illness, poverty, and the forced migration of individuals, all of which severely impact Cuba's economy, workforce, and future.
He emphasized, "People incapable of establishing a successful business or earning a livelihood for themselves and their families... With every passing minute, the demographic crisis caused by the exodus plunges our workforce and necessary talents further into misery."
The actor concluded with a direct message to the authorities: "Staying in power, regardless of the principles believed to justify it, hinges on the effective administration of that power. (...) The future can't wait until we're gone. The future is the next second."
Toirac's post has sparked numerous reactions from his followers, who echo the growing frustration among the Cuban population over resource scarcity, lack of opportunities, and the absence of genuine mechanisms for civic participation.
Understanding Ulises Toirac's Critique of Cuban Policies
What are the main criticisms Ulises Toirac has of the Cuban government?
Toirac criticizes the Cuban government for its negligence, lack of citizen involvement, inefficient policies, and concentration of power. He points out the regime's failure in economic and social planning, which has led to a deteriorating situation for the Cuban population.
How does Toirac view the role of the National Assembly and state agencies?
Toirac believes that the National Assembly and state agencies are largely ceremonial, lacking real debate or decision-making power. He argues that they are dominated by a centralized power structure he calls the "Holy Trinity" of Party-State-Government.
What impact does Toirac believe current policies have on Cuba?
Toirac outlines several impacts, including failing agricultural and industrial sectors, inadequate services, and social decay marked by migration, poverty, and a declining workforce.