Misael Pupo Fernández, a Cuban internationalist residing in Báguanos, Holguín province, has taken to Facebook to send a direct message to President Miguel Díaz-Canel. He denounces the utter neglect faced by his family in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
In his compelling account, Pupo Fernández highlights the dire conditions his family endures, with collapsed walls, a roof on the verge of collapse, and a single post holding the structure together. He expresses disappointment that no authorities have stepped in to offer assistance.
"For nine years, this sick and vulnerable family has been living in atrocious conditions. The leaders of Báguanos municipality and even the provincial Party of Holguín are aware, yet no solution has been provided," he criticized.
He recounted how the hurricane punctured holes in the roof, knocked down a wall, and left the house in danger of collapse, forcing his children to sleep on the floor at their grandmother’s house.
"So far, no one from Civil Defense has come. Everything is soaked, the mattress is ruined, and the stove is also damaged," lamented the resident of Holguín.
"They mock your words, President" In another post, Pupo Fernández castigated the local authorities' indifference and the lack of institutional response, despite the regime's promises.
"To let the world know how poorly things are handled in my country Cuba and the empty rhetoric about human rights: it's been seven days since Cyclone Melissa, and neither Civil Defense nor the social worker has shown up. The delegate came on the third day only to say there's no place for us," he wrote.
The internationalist, who claims to have served the Revolution in overseas missions, accused the municipal and provincial government of "blocking" vulnerable citizens:
"We can say we have a second blockade, that of the Báguanos leaders," he asserted.
He also invoked a phrase from Fidel Castro to question the current government's lack of action: "No force is capable of defeating those who decide to fight for their rights," he quoted.
The Other Side of the Official Narrative While state media broadcasts images of leaders in "solidarity" acts and reconstruction promises, dozens of families in eastern Cuba are still awaiting aid after Hurricane Melissa ravaged entire communities in Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Granma.
Misael Pupo Fernández's testimony reveals the everyday reality of thousands of Cubans forgotten by the State, grappling with poverty and bureaucratic neglect without resources or answers.
"I hope you, comrade president, will make this municipality work and attend to us as the Revolution demands," he concluded amidst debris, dampness, and unfulfilled promises.
Questions About Government Response and Social Issues in Cuba
What challenges does Misael Pupo Fernández's family face after Hurricane Melissa?
Misael Pupo Fernández's family faces severe challenges, including living in a structurally compromised house with collapsed walls and a damaged roof, and receiving no assistance from local authorities.
How has the Cuban government responded to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa?
According to Pupo Fernández, the Cuban government's response has been inadequate, with no visits from Civil Defense or social workers to offer aid to those affected by the hurricane.
What accusations does Pupo Fernández make against local authorities?
Pupo Fernández accuses local authorities of indifference, failing to provide aid, and creating a "second blockade" by neglecting the needs of vulnerable citizens.