This past Saturday, hundreds of Cubans gathered outside the Havana Libre Hotel in Havana due to a rumor circulating on social media. The rumor falsely promised a payout of $1,100 per person, allegedly organized by Spanish national Ignacio Giménez.
Early in the morning, lengthy lines began to form under the hotel's portico, as men and women waited patiently for the arrival of "teams identified by yellow t-shirts" that never arrived.
Video footage captured the scene, showing a crowd of people engaging in conversation, looking clearly bewildered. Nearby residents watched from the sidewalk as the throng of people grew uncontrollably, causing traffic to slow down on the bustling 23rd Avenue.
A similar scenario unfolded in Santiago de Cuba, where dozens of citizens flocked to the Santiago Hotel spurred by the same false promise. Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta reported that the government had dispatched police patrols to disperse the crowd.
The Ministry of Tourism quickly debunked the information, labeling it as completely false. Nonetheless, the rumor had already spread across Facebook and WhatsApp groups.
This incident highlights the desperation and vulnerability faced by Cubans, who are caught between scarcity and misinformation. In such an environment, even a glimmer of economic aid can trigger widespread chaos.
Understanding the Impact of False Information in Cuba
What caused the crowd to gather at Havana Libre Hotel?
A rumor circulated on social media claiming that Spanish national Ignacio Giménez was providing a payout of $1,100 per person, prompting people to gather at the hotel.
How did the authorities respond to the situation?
The Ministry of Tourism quickly denied the rumor, and police patrols were deployed to disperse crowds in Santiago de Cuba.
What does this incident reveal about the current situation in Cuba?
The incident underscores the desperation and vulnerability of Cubans, highlighting how misinformation can exploit their hopes for economic relief.