Amidst the widespread blackout—both literal and informational—plaguing Cuba, the Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has taken to social media to dispel rumors that many Cubans believed to be true: the dismissal of Energy and Mines Minister, Vicente de la O Levy, a prominent and criticized figure in the nation’s energy crisis.
"#FALSE || It is not true that Vicente de la O Levy has been dismissed from his position. He continues to perform his duties normally and is working to improve the situation in the electric sector. Our minister remains #StandingAndFighting," the state-run company declared in a post that sparked a wave of memes, jokes, and skepticism rather than clarification.
The statement emerged almost simultaneously with rumors on social media about his departure, accompanied by humorous edits, parodies, and fake screenshots of supposed official announcements.
Yet, the clumsy response of the communications machinery mirrored the crisis it's trying to extinguish: UNE had to publicly reaffirm that their minister is still "fighting," a term that, coming from an electric company, sounds like a poetic... and contradictory short circuit.
This is not the first instance where the Cuban regime has shown unease at the pace of social media. In recent months, fake news about blackouts, resignations, and "reshuffling" have circulated faster than the power grid itself.
In a nation where electricity may falter but Wi-Fi persists, memes have become a popular form of digital catharsis and resistance.
The government is visibly anxious in the face of this flood of fake news. Just days ago, the National Television News dedicated valuable airtime to debunk the rumor of supposed $1,100 aid in hotels, a rumor attributed to Ignacio Giménez that caused crowds of people desperate to claim nonexistent compensation.
There have also been fake reports about the "death" of Raúl Castro and the "resignation" of various ministers, forcing the propaganda machinery to react defensively, caught between panic and clumsiness.
The rumors about De la O Levy didn’t emerge from thin air: in recent months, several ministers have been dismissed or forced to resign amidst the ongoing crisis.
Among them are former Labor Minister Marta Elena Feitó, former Economy Minister Alejandro Gil, and former Deputy Prime Minister Jorge Luis Perdomo Di-Lella, all removed in a slow trickle that has made it clear that even within "continuity," officials are being phased out.
Meanwhile, Vicente de la O Levy remains the most questioned minister in Miguel Díaz-Canel's cabinet.
Since his appointment in 2022, Cuba has experienced five national blackouts, record electric deficits, and a barrage of unfulfilled promises. His continued presence seems less a sign of technical confidence and more of the value placed on loyalty by those in power.
Ultimately, UNE's denial confirms two things: that blackouts are not the only breakdowns in Cuba, and that even in darkness, Cuban humor remains vibrant.
Because while the minister "fights," the people endure through memes, sarcasm, and flashlights.
Understanding the Cuban Power Struggle
Why was there a rumor about Vicente de la O Levy's dismissal?
The rumor of his dismissal likely stemmed from widespread dissatisfaction with the ongoing energy crisis and the recent history of dismissals and forced resignations among Cuban ministers.
How has social media impacted the Cuban government's communication strategy?
Social media has significantly challenged the Cuban government's communication efforts, forcing them to respond swiftly to rumors and misinformation that spread rapidly online.
What role do memes play in Cuban society during crises?
Memes have become a tool for digital resistance and cathartic expression, allowing Cubans to cope with and critique their socio-political environment humorously and creatively.