The government of Holguín has selected two retired generals from the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) to serve as advisors on food production amid the ongoing crisis. "Édgar and Mariano, two generals who led the well-known Division Mambisa in Holguín, which helped navigate the most challenging times during the Special Period, will be the advisors for the strategy driven by the top authorities of the Party and the Government in the province," said official spokesperson Rafael Hernández Aguilera on Facebook.
These retirees will be responsible for "recovering the productive hubs" in the mentioned eastern territory because the regime believes their experience and knowledge "will be of great use to deliver the response that the people demand in these times."
In the midst of a food crisis and uncontrolled inflation, Joel Queipo Ruíz, member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and First Secretary in Holguín, launched his strategy to improve food availability. The appointment was made official on June 22, and the notes published on social media do not detail the last names of the "retired generals" who are taking on the task of boosting food production in Holguín.
Economic Hardships and Food Shortages
In Cuba, basic products like milk, bread, and eggs have become inaccessible luxuries for many families.
The reality is that the Cuban economy is in shambles. Rampant inflation has made basic food items unaffordable for the majority of families. Queipo Ruíz's strategy, although well-intentioned, appears to be more of a band-aid than a real solution to the country's structural problems.
The participation of the generals can be seen as old methods in an attempt to manage the current crisis. However, the continued military influence in civil affairs raises serious doubts about the effectiveness and true intention of these measures.
Addressing Food Production Challenges in Holguín
Here are some frequently asked questions to better understand the context and implications of the new strategy in Holguín.
Why were retired generals chosen to advise on food production?
The government of Holguín believes that the experience and knowledge of the retired generals will be valuable in recovering productive hubs and meeting the food demands of the people.
What are the main challenges facing food production in Holguín?
The main challenges include rampant inflation, a collapsed economy, and shortages of basic food items like milk, bread, and eggs.
What is the strategy proposed by Joel Queipo Ruíz?
The strategy involves appointing retired generals as advisors to help improve food availability and recover productive hubs in Holguín.