A 65-year-old retired Cuban musician has shared harsh criticisms about the current state of Havana, claiming the city no longer resembles the capital he enjoyed in his youth. "Do you want me to tell you the truth? Havana doesn't look like Havana; it looks like a rural town compared to when I was young and enjoying the city. This is worthless. There's an underdevelopment, like from the underworld," he expressed to the YouTube channel Vámonos con Juanka.
This Cuban, after retiring from his professional career, has been forced to work as a pedicab driver to make ends meet. He not only lamented the economic crisis in the country, evident in Havana's socio-cultural life, but also criticized the loss of values. "Consciousness has been lost, moral values have been lost, respect, ethics. There's nothing left in this city," he noted with evident frustration. "What future does this country have?" he wondered. His reflection has received dozens of supportive messages on social media.
In the video, other interviewees share their love for the city but acknowledge that Havana has changed drastically and is no longer the same city they once knew, admired, and enjoyed. Decades of crisis and political repression have affected Cuba and its capital beyond what is visible in the urban landscape, as it has also left the soul of its citizens in ruins.
Impact of Havana's Decline on Its Residents
The following questions and answers delve deeper into the issues discussed in the article, offering more insight into the current situation in Havana and its effects on the residents.
What are the main criticisms of Havana according to the retired musician?
The retired musician criticizes the significant decline in Havana's development, comparing it to a rural town. He also highlights the loss of moral values, respect, and ethics in the city.
Why did the retired musician have to work as a pedicab driver?
After retiring from his professional career, the economic situation in Cuba forced him to work as a pedicab driver to survive.
How has the political and economic situation in Cuba affected Havana?
Decades of crisis and political repression have drastically changed Havana, affecting not only the urban landscape but also the spirit and values of its residents.