In a recent YouTube podcast, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel painted a picture of Cuba that seems disconnected from the reality faced by its citizens. Despite the podcast's minimal engagement—garnering only 32 likes and 300 views in three hours—Díaz-Canel, who succeeded Raúl Castro, confidently stated that the country is "moving forward and thriving."
His remarks came as he briefly acknowledged the severe economic crisis gripping Cuba, which has led to three nationwide blackouts since October (on October 18, November 17, and December 4). "No one underestimates the weight of our current economic needs, the frustration caused by the blackouts, the shortage of medicines, nor the issues with transportation, water, cooking fuel, and sometimes, the poor quality of various services," Díaz-Canel admitted. However, he offered no solutions or timelines for resolving these longstanding issues under the Communist Party's 65-year rule.
Instead, Díaz-Canel resorted to a series of slogans, claiming, "Despite everything, we are battling against a relentless economic war that for 65 years has not abandoned its plan to defeat us through hunger, needs, and endless difficulties placed in our path." His rhetoric suggested that external forces are to blame, and the solution lies in party propaganda.
Interestingly, Díaz-Canel did acknowledge, albeit briefly, that some problems could be addressed internally, without attributing them to the U.S. embargo. "I am convinced, and visits to provinces confirm it, that only through unity in smaller, life-connected structures like neighborhoods and municipalities, can we address many issues unrelated to the blockade and its impact on Cuban families' tough daily lives," he said.
These statements were made during a program featuring discussions with local leaders, including Yarobis Álvarez, the provincial director of Education in Artemisa; Ana María Gallardo Caso, president of the Municipal Assembly of Bejucal; and Pedro Lizardo Garcés Escalona, president of the Rampa Popular Council. They shared their experiences in recovering areas affected by power outages and cyclones.
While Díaz-Canel calls for sacrifices from the Cuban people, his stepson, Manuel Anido, enjoys a life of luxury in Madrid with Cuban actress Ana de Armas. Anido's children were born in a hospital whose name has been obscured, likely to prevent ordinary Cubans, who are asked to endure hardships, from realizing that the Castro successor's family experiences a different Cuba.
Understanding Cuba's Economic and Social Challenges
What are the main issues affecting Cuba's economy?
Cuba's economy is currently plagued by severe shortages in essential goods such as medicines, transportation issues, water scarcity, and frequent power outages which have led to widespread frustration among its citizens.
How does Díaz-Canel propose to address Cuba's challenges?
Díaz-Canel has suggested that unity within smaller community structures, like neighborhoods and municipalities, could help resolve some problems. However, he did not provide concrete solutions or timelines for these issues.
What external factors does the Cuban government blame for its economic problems?
The Cuban government frequently attributes its economic difficulties to the U.S. embargo, describing it as a relentless economic war aimed at subduing the nation through hunger and hardship.