Abel Prieto, head of Casa de las Américas, addressed the recent protests in Morón, Ciego de Ávila, by urging solidarity with the country's political leadership. His remarks came after a night of unrest marked by residents marching through the streets, banging pots and pans, and chanting for "freedom."
In a message shared on the platform X, Prieto referenced a comment by Pedro Jorge Velázquez, known online as "El Necio," noting the swift international coverage of the events in the Avileño municipality. Prieto claimed that the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad portrayed the disturbances as indicative of an imminent fall of the Cuban "regime."
He used this interpretation to call for heightened support for Cuba's political power structure. "We must remain united with Díaz-Canel, our Communist Party, and our government," he wrote, underscoring his message with the official slogan "#CubaVencerá."
The protests on Friday night saw significant tensions in Morón, with numerous videos on social media showing residents engaging in cacerolazos and anti-government chants. Demonstrators also targeted the local Communist Party headquarters, causing property damage and setting furniture ablaze in the street.
A particularly striking moment captured in a widely circulated video shows a young man falling to the ground after a gunshot is heard near the party office, with fellow protesters rushing to aid him and transport him for medical care.
The official narrative has sought to depict the incidents as isolated acts by a small group influenced from abroad. The state-run newspaper Invasor reported the arrest of five individuals, with ongoing investigations by authorities.
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel weighed in on social media, labeling the events as "vandalism" and "violence," and issued a stern warning to those involved, stating, "There will be no impunity for vandalism and violence."
The unrest in Morón arises amidst mounting social discontent in Cuba, driven by extended power outages, food shortages, and worsening living conditions. While the government consistently blames external factors and calls for political unity against perceived smear campaigns, public discontent is increasingly manifest across various island communities.
Understanding the Protests in Morón, Cuba
What sparked the protests in Morón?
The protests in Morón were fueled by frustration over prolonged power outages, food shortages, and deteriorating living conditions in Cuba.
How did Abel Prieto respond to the protests?
Abel Prieto called for unity and support for the Cuban leadership, urging citizens to stand by Díaz-Canel, the Communist Party, and the government.
What was Miguel Díaz-Canel's reaction to the unrest?
Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the events as acts of vandalism and violence, warning participants that there would be no impunity.