The Cuban government has informed the Catholic Church of its decision not to extend the temporary residency of Mexican priest José Ramírez, a member of the Congregation of the Mission. This move is seen as retaliation for Ramírez's act of ringing the bells at the La Milagrosa Church in Santos Suárez while locals protested against power outages in Havana.
This expulsion follows the widespread circulation of a video on December 8, posted by activist Adelth Bonne Gamboa on Facebook. The video captured the sound of clanging pots and pans from residents, accompanied by the resonating chimes of the church bells.
Rising Tensions Between Church and Regime
Martí Noticias has verified the regime's punitive action against the priest, noting that State Security agents directly pressured him. As a result, Ramírez is required to leave Cuba and return to Mexico by Thursday.
The forced departure of José Ramírez occurs amid escalating tensions between the Cuban regime and critical voices within the Catholic Church. Priests such as Lester Zayas, Alberto Reyes, Kenny Fernández Delgado, and José Conrado Rodríguez Alegre, along with nuns like Sor Nadiezka Almeida, have openly criticized the national crisis and lack of freedoms, leading to government discontent.
Protests Sparked by Severe Power Outages
The incident took place during a surge of protests between Monday night and Tuesday morning over the severe power outages plaguing the Cuban populace, in addition to widespread shortages of essential goods and services.
In various neighborhoods across Havana and other regions, hundreds of Cubans took to the streets to protest against the blackouts, scarcity, and the breakdown of basic services. In response, the regime resorted to repression and cut off internet access.
Key Questions about the Expulsion of Priest José Ramírez
Why was Mexican priest José Ramírez expelled from Cuba?
José Ramírez was expelled as a punitive measure for ringing church bells during a protest against power outages in Havana, which the Cuban regime viewed as an act of dissent.
What has been the reaction of the Catholic Church to the expulsion?
The expulsion of José Ramírez adds to the growing strain between the Catholic Church and the Cuban regime, with several church figures publicly criticizing the government's policies and actions.
How did the Cuban government respond to the recent protests?
In response to the protests, the Cuban government intensified repression and disrupted internet services to stifle dissent.