The Electric Company of the Isle of Youth has publicly refuted claims circulating on social media about a potential disconnection from the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) affecting the Cuban territory. "Good afternoon to all our clients, there are rumors on social media about a total blackout on our Island. This is completely FALSE. We are recovering from the current crisis and continue working towards stability in our power generation. Trust in the leadership of the territory and the electric workers. #WeMoveForward," the company announced on its Facebook profile.
This brief statement is part of the regime's strategy to control the narrative. By appealing for trust in the leadership and the electric workers, the message aims to reinforce the notion that authorities maintain control, despite the unresolved nature of the situation. Such communications attempt to restore confidence in institutions, downplaying any perception of inefficiency or lack of control.
The use of the hashtag #WeMoveForward is a typical propagandistic element in official Cuban discourse. It aligns with the regime's narrative of effort and resilience, even amidst crises. This phrase is designed to convey an optimistic and motivational tone, aiming to soften the perceived severity of the situation.
Moreover, the phrase "we are recovering from the current crisis" suggests an effort to manage public perception by acknowledging a difficult situation but presenting it as temporary and under control. This wording serves as a tactic to mitigate criticism, giving the impression that improvement is underway.
In reality, despite rhetoric that attempts to obscure the truth, Cubans endure prolonged and exhausting blackouts daily. This Thursday, the forecast from the Cuban Electric Union predicts a disruption of 1,678 MW. If this materializes, it would represent the highest disruption in recent years, according to the institution's reports.