The Santiago de Cuba Carnival, which kicked off this Thursday and will conclude on Saturday, continues to witness scenes of violent confrontations among attendees.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta shared a video on Facebook depicting a brawl on Trocha Street, one of the main areas of the renowned Rumbón Mayor in Santiago de Cuba.
Warning: The following article contains descriptions and references to violent incidents. Viewer discretion is advised.
The video captures the violent event while a woman questions the absence of the police, who were reportedly present just minutes earlier. In the final seconds of the short clip, the police can be seen apprehending a man.
"Carnival heats up," commented the journalist, referring to another altercation recorded during the pre-carnival festivities in the city's streets.
This year's largest popular celebration in Santiago de Cuba takes place under challenging circumstances, marked by persistent power outages, various circulating diseases, and rampant economic inflation.
On Thursday, a resident criticized the Santiago de Cuba Carnival, which officially began that day and will run until Saturday, due to the exorbitant prices of food and beverages. The complainant stated that with his professional salary (around 7,000 pesos), after purchasing some food for the month, he is left with approximately 1,500 pesos, which barely allows him to enjoy a single day of the carnival.
The man reported that the price of beer ranges from 200 to 240 pesos, fried chicken costs 400, malt drinks are 300, canned juices are about 250, cheese pizzas are 120, while the traditional pork sandwich (pan con lechón) costs 200, though he noted that it can also be priced at 250.
Key Issues During Santiago de Cuba Carnival
Here are some frequently asked questions about the ongoing issues and conditions during the Santiago de Cuba Carnival.
What are the main issues affecting the Santiago de Cuba Carnival this year?
The carnival is being affected by ongoing power outages, the spread of various diseases among the population, and severe economic inflation.
What are the reported prices for food and drinks at the carnival?
Beer prices range from 200 to 240 pesos, fried chicken is 400, malt drinks are 300, canned juices are about 250, cheese pizzas are 120, and the traditional pork sandwich costs between 200 and 250 pesos.
How have residents reacted to the high prices at the carnival?
Many residents have expressed frustration and criticism, noting that their salaries do not suffice to enjoy the carnival due to the high costs of food and beverages.