In an effort to assert his leadership amid Cuba's most severe economic crisis, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has announced a "Combatant People's March" set for December 20, following the closure of the National Assembly of People's Power session. "Yes, there is a blockade, yes, the blockade has intensified, yes, there is an economic war, yes, they despise us, yes, they vulgarize us, obscenely and hatefully intoxicate us on social media... In response to this hostile policy design, we call upon the heroic Cuban people to a combatant march on December 20," stated the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) as well.
His proposal, delivered during the closing speech of the IX Plenary of the PCC Central Committee, which took place this past Friday in the air-conditioned halls of the so-called "Palace of the Revolution," signaled the "continuity" of his government and the distraction strategy that, according to theorist Noam Chomsky—often praised by the Castro regime—consists of diverting public attention from crucial issues, a key element of social control.
A Propaganda Event Conceived by the Great Dictator
The "Combatant People's March" is a concept dating back to 1980 when dictator Fidel Castro organized massive demonstrations to suppress those seeking asylum at the Peruvian embassy, initiating the Mariel exodus. These demonstrations were marked by violence promoted by regime institutions, acts of repudiation, and slogans such as "We don't want them, we don't need them," "Pin pon fuera, abajo la gusanera," and "Let the scum go!" setting a dark precedent in Cuban historical memory. Orchestrated through large forced mobilizations of military personnel, workers, and students, these marches—requiring scarce resources in Cuba, like public transport and fuel—are designed as propaganda events typically avoided by the children and privileged of the communist elite.
Propaganda as a Continuity Strategy Amid Crisis
During his speech, Díaz-Canel resorted to rhetoric filled with slogans, repeating usual accusations against the United States and blaming the internal crisis on the "criminal and genocidal blockade." However, his words lacked concrete proposals to solve the severe economic problems Cubans face, from shortages to constant blackouts. Díaz-Canel called for "creative resistance," claiming they would move forward by "enhancing development programs" through "innovation and work." Nonetheless, he acknowledged that the government's plan to revive the economy has not yielded satisfactory results.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz admitted to a "widespread dissatisfaction" due to a lack of coordination and efficiency in implementing corrective measures. In this context, the march's call is seen by analysts as a strategy to shift attention away from governmental management and project an image of unity and resistance to the international community.
Without effective solutions to the island's crisis, the government appears to once again resort to symbolic propaganda rather than addressing the structural problems affecting millions of Cubans.
Understanding the Cuban Crisis and Government's Response
What is the purpose of the Combatant People's March?
The Combatant People's March is intended as a propaganda event to project unity and resistance against perceived hostile policies, particularly from the United States, and to distract from the internal crisis.
How has Díaz-Canel addressed Cuba's economic issues?
Díaz-Canel has largely blamed external factors such as the U.S. blockade for Cuba's economic problems, proposing "creative resistance" and development programs, but without offering concrete solutions.
What historical event is the Combatant People's March associated with?
The march concept dates back to 1980, linked to Fidel Castro's mass demonstrations against individuals seeking asylum, which led to the Mariel Boatlift.