Cuban activist Rosa María Payá declared on Friday that resolving Cuba's ongoing crisis necessitates a complete overhaul of the political system and the departure of the current leadership.
In a statement shared on her X profile, Payá accused President Miguel Díaz-Canel of "lying and stalling for time," and asserted that the only viable solution for Cuba is to establish a system grounded in freedom and democracy.
"Those in power need to step down," stated Payá, who also serves as a commissioner for the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). She called for a political transition that would enable Cubans to build prosperity through their own efforts.
Payá highlighted the recent protests and the banging of pots and pans as evidence of growing dissatisfaction within the country, signaling that a segment of the population demands an end to the current political system.
Uniting for Change: The Liberation Agreement
During her address, the opposition leader emphasized that various democratic forces, both inside and outside the island, have coalesced around an initiative called the Liberation Agreement. This plan outlines a roadmap for freeing political prisoners, rebuilding the country's institutions, and conducting free elections.
Payá explained that this proposal aims to lay the groundwork for political transition and address the humanitarian crisis facing the nation, with further details to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Context of Rising Pressure on the Regime
Payá's comments came shortly after Díaz-Canel appeared before the state-run media, acknowledging that Cuban officials have been in talks with representatives from the U.S. government, a fact the regime had previously denied for weeks.
During his appearance, Díaz-Canel also admitted the severity of the energy crisis affecting the island, characterized by prolonged blackouts, halted transportation, and challenges in various sectors.
Payá's remarks echo responses from exiled communities and political figures who view the current situation as increasing pressure on the Cuban regime.
The Assembly of the Cuban Resistance, for instance, stated in a press conference that the regime's acknowledgment of talks with Washington indicates an attempt to buy time without implementing genuine political changes. The exiled group argued that Havana seeks to ease international pressure while preserving its power structure, urging for heightened sanctions and external pressure until a political transformation is achieved on the island.
Understanding the Political Crisis in Cuba
What solution does Rosa María Payá propose for Cuba's crisis?
Rosa María Payá suggests that the only solution to Cuba's crisis is a complete political transition to a system based on freedom and democracy, which includes the removal of current leaders.
What is the Liberation Agreement?
The Liberation Agreement is an initiative that unites various democratic forces to propose a roadmap for freeing political prisoners, rebuilding institutional structures, and holding free elections in Cuba.
How has the Cuban regime responded to international pressure?
The Cuban regime has acknowledged talks with U.S. officials, which some view as an attempt to alleviate international pressure without making real political changes. Exiled groups call for increased sanctions and external pressure.