The Cuban government mobilized its supporters in Baracoa, Guantánamo, following a protest that erupted on Thursday night after more than 14 hours without electricity. Lorian Milhet Fuentes, a member of the Municipal Bureau overseeing the political and ideological sphere, shared on Facebook the statements of two regime loyalists who criticized their fellow citizens for taking to the streets to demand power and food.
In a video, a young woman called for unity to find an alternative solution to the country's situation. "The solution is not protests, but seeing how we can provide food for the children and what the municipal leadership can do to help the population; I think we should come up with ideas," she expressed.
An elderly man added that under no circumstances could such attitudes (protests) destabilize the country. "The issue is we're the majority; more people understand the situation the country is going through and the causes of these problems, even though most of us are suffering," he said confidently. "Ultimately, the country is moving forward, and efforts are being made to improve the situation," he added.
Typically, when such protests occur, the regime's reaction is to share photos and videos of empty streets on social media to portray a false sense of tranquility. However, this time, the Guantanamero official decided it was better to show citizens reproaching the population and expressing confidence in the government.
On Thursday, videos shared on social media showed Baracoa residents in the streets, expressing their outrage over the severe lack of electricity and food shortages. "We want power and food!" several people shouted during the protests, which did not involve any destruction or clashes with the police.
"They are asking for power after 15 hours without electricity. Meanwhile, in the city, almost 18 hours without power," Facebook user Yadira Durán Rodríguez denounced.
Key Issues in Baracoa: Protests and Government Response
In light of the recent protests in Baracoa, several questions have arisen regarding the causes, responses, and potential solutions to the issues faced by the residents.
Why did the protests in Baracoa start?
The protests began due to over 14 hours without electricity, which exacerbated the already critical situation of food shortages in Baracoa.
How did the Cuban government respond to the protests?
The government mobilized its supporters to criticize the protesters and emphasized that efforts are being made to improve the situation, while also sharing videos of empty streets to create a false sense of calm.
What alternatives were suggested by regime supporters?
Regime supporters suggested finding ways to provide food for children and collaborating with municipal leadership to help the population, instead of protesting.