Employees from the National Zoo who took part in the "People's Combatant March" in Havana were transported in trucks typically used for carrying gas cylinders, as reported by users on social media. "From the Zoo to Malecón. Just to have someone march, they transport them like animals," read a comment shared on X, accompanied by images of the trucks, which seemed more suited for livestock than people.
Social media was inundated with criticisms, highlighting what many view as an act of disrespect and dehumanization towards the participants. "They despise them, treat them like animals, and yet they go to worship their masters. It's a serious mental issue," one user remarked. Another added, "They are taken like what they are... sheep."
This incident adds to numerous reports of coercion ensuring attendance at the march on Friday, December 20, which the regime described as a "strong statement" against the U.S. embargo and Cuba's inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
Roberto Morales Ojeda, the Secretary of Organization for the Communist Party's Central Committee, claimed that the march attracted over 500,000 individuals. However, both citizens and analysts have cast doubt on this figure, labeling it as "manipulative."
The critical analysis account Contexto Cubano, based on aerial footage, suggested that actual participation was merely around 14,071 individuals. Criticisms have not only targeted the number of attendees but also the use of military and public transport to mobilize participants.
Accounts shared on social media, even by regime supporters, confirmed that many Cubans felt pressured to attend the event. "The half-million-person march is yet another attempt to impose a fictitious narrative. No one believes these setups anymore," commented a user.
Understanding the "People's Combatant March"
What was the purpose of the "People's Combatant March"?
The march was intended as a demonstration against the U.S. embargo on Cuba and the country's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
How many people were reported to have attended the march?
The regime claimed over 500,000 participants, but some analyses suggest the actual number was closer to 14,071.
Why were people criticizing the transportation method for participants?
Critics argued that using trucks meant for gas cylinders was disrespectful and dehumanizing, treating participants like livestock.