Cuba's leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, recently described residents of the western and central regions as "privileged" because they have access to electricity—a comment that starkly highlights the harsh living conditions faced by millions of Cubans.
On October 29, during a special session of the Round Table focused on assessing the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba, Díaz-Canel led a National Defense Council meeting from the Palace of the Revolution and held a video conference with officials from the affected provinces.
The leader stated that with the activation of some power plants, "the western and central parts of the country will be privileged," compared to the eastern territories.
"For a few days, if we manage to keep the power plants that Vicente De La O Levy mentioned would start today, the west and center of the country will be privileged in relation to the recent hardships we've experienced with our energy system," said Díaz-Canel.
This statement, delivered in an ostensibly explanatory tone, underscores the complete breakdown of Cuba's electrical infrastructure, where having basic necessities like a light bulb or preserving food has become a luxury.
Rather than offering solutions or relief measures, Díaz-Canel normalized the inequality and hardship, acknowledging that merely having electricity is now considered a privilege.
The Aftermath of Hurricane Melissa
His remarks came as eastern provinces were still assessing the destructive impact of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive damage to homes, crops, power grids, and communication systems.
Authorities reported that Melissa led to the fall of hundreds of utility poles, the collapse of transformers, and significant losses in agriculture and basic infrastructure.
Images circulating on social media depict entire communities submerged, impassable roads, and a population in dire need of water and food.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What did Díaz-Canel mean by calling certain Cubans "privileged"?
Díaz-Canel referred to the residents of western and central Cuba as "privileged" because they currently have access to electricity, a statement that underscores the dire state of the country's energy infrastructure.
What impact did Hurricane Melissa have on eastern Cuba?
Hurricane Melissa caused significant damage, including the destruction of homes, agricultural losses, and the collapse of power and communication networks, leaving many residents in a state of crisis.
How has the Cuban government responded to the energy crisis?
The government, rather than implementing relief measures, has acknowledged the disparity and hardship by labeling electricity access as a privilege, reflecting the country's ongoing struggles with its power system.