Cuba's leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, has removed Jaime Ernesto Chiang Vega and Ernesto Luis Cruz Reyes from their positions as governor and deputy governor of Las Tunas, respectively. This decision was made due to "violations in the exercise of their responsibilities," as reported by the state-run media outlet Cubadebate.
Chiang Vega reportedly submitted his resignation to Díaz-Canel, acknowledging unspecified "errors" in his administration, which is a common practice in official Cuban media to avoid providing details. In contrast, Cruz Reyes was "suspended" from his role due to violations that led to the initiation of a revocation process.
Background on the Ousted Officials
Jaime Ernesto Chiang Vega, who had been serving as governor since 2020, was reaffirmed in his position last year through a proposal by Díaz-Canel. According to the island's National Electoral Council (CEN), he was the least voted governor by the Municipal Assemblies, receiving 92.16% of the votes (notably, the Cuban public does not directly participate in this voting process). Chiang Vega, aged 57, is an electro-energy engineer, holds a master's degree in Marketing and Social Communication, and is a deputy in the National Assembly of People's Power. He was recognized by local media outlet Tiempo 21 for his work capacity and effective management style.
Ernesto Luis Cruz Reyes, the removed deputy governor, is 40 years old and has a degree in Accounting and Finance, with additional training in public administration and management. He previously worked as the Coordinator of Programs and Objectives for the provincial government.
Temporary Leadership and Precedents
In the interim, Eduardo Walter Cuelí, the current Coordinator of Programs and Objectives for the provincial government, has been temporarily appointed as governor. This change mirrors a similar situation in April when Alexandre Corona Quintero, the governor of Cienfuegos, stepped down after "acknowledging errors committed in his responsibilities." In that instance, Yolexis Rodríguez Armada, the provincial deputy governor, took over the role until a new governor was elected, eventually being confirmed in the position.