In the wake of the recent explosions at a military warehouse in Holguín, the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) has not only maintained a conspicuous silence regarding the 13 missing individuals but has also responded to criticism with a bold display on social media. Over the past few days, MINFAR's Facebook page has been showcasing videos of young people gearing up for a potential conflict with the neighboring country just 90 miles to the north.
One video features teenagers from the Military Service handling weapons, while another shows university students, both under the tagline “Ready to defend the homeland.” This comes as MINFAR announced the upcoming University Student Stronghold event on January 21, a tradition that dates back to 1975 and involves all universities across the nation. A promotional image even depicts a young person wearing a gas mask, a particularly sensitive choice given the recent chemical explosions.
Critics have taken to the comments section to express their dismay. “Seeing those masks reminds me of the chemical explosions in Holguín,” noted one user, while another questioned the lack of updates about the Melones tragedy, asking, “Why no follow-up news about this disaster?” Others mocked the ministry’s focus on military readiness rather than addressing everyday issues, with comments like, “They should be cleaning up trash in Havana instead of playing war on Facebook.”
The MINFAR’s social media activity highlights a stark disregard for the missing 13, indirectly addressing calls to end mandatory military service in Cuba by reaffirming their commitment to compulsory recruitment. Meanwhile, the families of those missing have voiced their frustration over the authorities' inaction in searching for their loved ones.
Four Days of Deafening Silence
Last Friday, MINFAR released its last official update about the explosions through an "Informative Note," confirming the return of evacuees to their homes but failing to mention any specific measures being taken to locate the missing individuals. The ministry claimed that “specialized actions” were ongoing, without detailing what these actions entail or their intended outcomes.
Family members have repeatedly complained that authorities have done nothing to search for the missing. "They were told not to search because it could cause more explosions and risk more lives," reported Jesús Antonio, uncle of 19-year-old recruit Liander José García Oliva. "They were informed that there was no chance of survival, that anyone alive would have tried to escape by now," he added, lamenting that they were presumed dead without a search.
The community of Melones was thrown into panic and distress on January 7 when they heard the explosions from the military ammunition warehouse fire. Initially, residents stayed indoors but soon realized they needed to flee for safety. Videos from social media captured the chaos, showing people running and calling out to each other as the cause of the detonations remained unknown.
Hours after the incident, MINFAR confirmed that 13 individuals were missing, including four officers and nine soldiers. Reports from independent media and social networks suggested that these recruits were handling hazardous materials without adequate training or equipment. Footage from the scene showed bright orange flames, hinting at the presence of chemical substances.
MINFAR has stated that access to the site will be granted “once conditions allow” and has authorized the return of evacuees, assuring that there is no immediate danger. However, these assurances have done little to placate the anger of the families, who believe that no concrete steps have been taken to search for their relatives. Meanwhile, MINFAR continues to focus on military preparedness rather than addressing the crisis at hand.
Key Questions on Holguín Explosions and MINFAR's Silence
What has been MINFAR's response to the missing individuals in Holguín?
MINFAR has largely maintained silence and instead focused on showcasing military preparedness on social media, without providing concrete updates on the search for the missing individuals.
How have families of the missing reacted to MINFAR's handling of the situation?
Families have expressed deep frustration, claiming authorities have done nothing to search for their loved ones and were informed there was no chance of survival without any search efforts.
What are the implications of MINFAR's focus on military readiness?
MINFAR's emphasis on military readiness amidst the crisis suggests an unwavering commitment to compulsory military service, ignoring calls to end the practice and shifting focus away from addressing the immediate disaster.