In a bold statement, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel declared that the nation's electrical infrastructure is "strengthened" during his speech at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Investment Forum, taking place in Rome, Italy. This claim comes as a stark contrast to the daily blackouts plaguing the Cuban people.
Reality vs. Rhetoric
Addressing potential investors on an international stage, Díaz-Canel painted a rosy picture by asserting that the country's "electrical, industrial, productive, and hydraulic infrastructures are in a clear process of fortification." However, these statements clash with the grim reality of ongoing power outages and an energy crisis that continues to burden the island's population.
While Díaz-Canel attempts to project a positive image, the situation remains dire. The country's power generation capacity faces more than 1,300 MW in deficits, and stability in the system is yet to be achieved.
Unfulfilled Promises and Persistent Power Issues
In September, during an extraordinary session of the Provincial Committee in Sancti Spíritus, Díaz-Canel promised that his government would resolve these issues and "restore light to the population" by the year's end. Yet, this assurance seems increasingly unlikely as the energy crisis persists.
Back in May, during a visit to the municipality of Amancio in Las Tunas, Díaz-Canel acknowledged the severity of the situation, admitting that recent power cuts had been "terrible, lasting up to 20 hours."
Infrastructure Setbacks
Despite official narratives and social media updates from the presidency offering potential solutions, the reality is grim. Just hours ago, the Cienfuegos thermoelectric plant was taken offline from the National Electric System (SEN), further exacerbating the crisis. According to the Cuban Electric Union, the disconnection of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Thermoelectric Plant was "scheduled" for 10 p.m. on Monday, compounding the already challenging situation.