Yudelkis Ortiz, the first secretary of the PCC in Granma, boasted on social media about gifting a soccer ball, describing it as a moment of "unique joy" for the youth of Pilón, a region heavily affected by recent earthquakes in southeastern Cuba. "A moment of unique joy for these young people in Pilón when they received a soccer ball to play with," highlighted Ortiz on Facebook. This gesture starkly contrasts with the dire situation in the community, showcasing a disconnect between the regime and the real needs of the people.
The images shared by Ortiz reveal how the regime uses the simple act of giving a ball as a propaganda tool, portraying it on social media as a supposed "revolutionary achievement," while critical issues like rebuilding after the recent earthquakes progress at a painfully slow pace. This isn't the first instance where the regime displays "these meaningful moments" on social platforms as if they were significant solutions, attempting to soothe the pain of families affected by the earthquakes, while fundamental problems remain unaddressed.
Artistic Distraction Amidst Destruction
Recently, the first secretary of the PCC in Granma introduced the activities of the project “La Guaguandunga,” which seems to derive its name from combining “guagua” (bus) and “sandunga.” This initiative aims to bring cheer to various communities in the Granma province, severely impacted by the earthquakes last Sunday. Ortiz mentioned on Facebook that the “La Guaguandunga” project, led by singer and composer José Alberto Tamayo (El Ruiseñor), arrived in Pilón, one of the hardest-hit municipalities, presenting it as another way to address the needs of those affected.
Reality of Neglect Surfaces Online
Meanwhile, social media is flooded with reports of neglect following the quakes. A young resident of Campechuela, a town in Granma province, showcased some of the damage caused by the November 10th tremors to her home and her neighbor’s, criticizing the lack of attention from authorities to families in distress. Cuban citizen Shakira Castillo Pérez posted photos in the Facebook group “Somos de Campechuela” showing cracks in walls, ceilings, and house structures due to the earthquakes' impact.