A Facebook post by singer Saúl Manuel has ignited discussion after sharing an allegation from a citizen claiming to have been fined 36,000 pesos by state inspectors in Santiago de Cuba.
The individual alleges that officials penalized him for possessing "half a box of Criollos cigarettes and a bottle of rum" at his establishment, despite these items being for personal use rather than for sale.
The complainant, who remains anonymous, asserts that the incident took place at a café in the Pedrera area, near the building known as "18 Plantas."
In his statement, the citizen accused the inspectors of abusive behavior and of threatening him during the inspection. He also alleged that the inspectors consumed alcohol during working hours.
"They slapped me with a 36,000 pesos fine for half a box of Criollos and a bottle of rum from the store. I told them I couldn't afford it, and they said it wasn't their problem," he recounted.
The complainant identifies one inspector as chiefly responsible for the event, although he provides no documentary evidence or direct witnesses to support his claim.
The allegation has sparked numerous comments on social media, mostly critical of the local authorities' conduct. Some users express concern over the rising fines in the private sector and the lack of oversight on inspectors, while others urge caution regarding potential violations by the worker himself.
So far, there has been no official confirmation or response from municipal authorities or the Directorate of Labor in Santiago de Cuba.
High-value fines in private businesses have been a recurrent source of controversy in recent years, particularly due to allegations of corruption, extortion, and abuse of power within inspection mechanisms.
This incident highlights the growing public dissatisfaction with the tightening of punitive measures against entrepreneurs and self-employed workers amid a national economic crisis marked by inflation, scarcity, and workforce migration.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inspection Practices in Cuba
What are the typical fines for private businesses in Cuba?
Fines for private businesses in Cuba can vary widely but have been increasingly high, often criticized as a means of exerting control over the private sector. Allegations of arbitrary and excessive fines are common.
How do Cuban authorities regulate private sector inspections?
Cuban authorities conduct inspections as a regulatory measure for the private sector. However, these practices are often criticized for a lack of transparency and accountability, leading to accusations of corruption and abuse.
What recourse do citizens have against alleged inspector misconduct?
Citizens can report misconduct by inspectors to higher authorities or through social media platforms. However, outcomes can be uncertain, and official responses are not always guaranteed.