An elderly Cuban woman has revealed the harsh reality of having to spend the night outside pharmacies in the hope of obtaining essential medications the following day. Carmen Pérez Martín shared a photo on her Facebook profile, showing herself seated on a small bench in a doorway, waiting for her turn. Nearby, another elderly person, looking downcast, also waits.
"Many people slept outside the pharmacy, hoping to get the medication we need. Life is just one long line after another. And we keep enduring it," she lamented.
"Ignacio Ramonet, interview me," the woman challenged, referencing the recent interview by the Spanish journalist with Miguel Díaz-Canel, during which the Cuban leader claimed that no one in Cuba is persecuted for expressing opinions against the revolution, ignoring the reality of over a thousand political prisoners on the island.
Cuban Medication Crisis: Questions and Answers
The following questions and answers provide additional insight into the current medication crisis in Cuba, highlighting the struggles faced by its citizens.
Why are Cubans sleeping outside pharmacies?
Cubans are resorting to sleeping outside pharmacies in hopes of securing essential medications that are in short supply. The long lines and lack of supply force people to wait overnight to improve their chances of getting what they need.
What did Carmen Pérez Martín say about the situation?
Carmen Pérez Martín expressed her frustration with the ongoing medication crisis, sharing a photo of herself waiting outside a pharmacy. She emphasized the never-ending lines and the need to sleep outside to secure necessary medications.
How did Carmen Pérez Martín challenge Ignacio Ramonet?
Carmen Pérez Martín challenged Ignacio Ramonet by asking him to interview her, pointing out the stark contrast between the Cuban government's claims and the reality faced by ordinary citizens. Her statement was a direct reference to Ramonet's recent interview with Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.