The Cuban Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) has been notably silent following a tragic bus accident that occurred last Friday on the western ring road of Camagüey. The collision involved two buses and resulted in an initial report of three fatalities and over fifty injuries, including soldiers.
Miguel Arias Velázquez, the provincial transport delegate in Camagüey, detailed that one of the buses was a Transmetro coming from Santiago de Cuba, carrying civilian passengers, while the other was transporting soldiers from the Central Military Unit (UMC) No. 4 in Havana. In an interview with the Cuban Television News (NTV), Arias Velázquez stated that the accident happened when the military bus failed to obey a stop sign upon entering the main highway, causing it to cross into the path of the Transmetro, leading to the crash. This alleged responsibility has also been shrouded in MINFAR's silence.
Explosions in Holguín: Another Case of Information Withholding
Just days before the Camagüey incident, explosions rocked an arms and ammunition warehouse in the Melones community, Rafael Freyre municipality, Holguín, in the early hours of January 7.
MINFAR reported 13 individuals missing, including two majors, two second lieutenants, and nine soldiers, most of whom were young recruits serving their mandatory military duty. Relatives of the missing have voiced their frustration, criticizing the lack of information and rescue efforts by the authorities. Witnesses claim that the recruits were handling hazardous materials without proper training or equipment, potentially contributing to the disaster.
MINFAR's Lack of Transparency and Public Outcry
In both incidents, MINFAR has faced criticism for its lack of transparency and communication. After the explosions in Holguín, the ministry released a brief statement but has not provided further details on rescue efforts or the status of the missing individuals.
This secrecy has sparked outrage among the public and the families of the victims, who are demanding answers and concrete actions. The absence of official information and perceived negligence in handling these crises have amplified public distrust towards the authorities. Citizens are calling for greater transparency and accountability, especially in situations involving young individuals in military service.
These events highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive review of MINFAR's safety and communication protocols, as well as a more effective response to the public's demands for information and justice in Cuba.
Addressing the MINFAR's Communication Issues
What was the cause of the bus accident in Camagüey?
The accident was caused when a military bus failed to obey a stop sign, resulting in a collision with a Transmetro bus carrying civilian passengers.
How many people were affected by the explosions in Holguín?
Thirteen individuals were reported missing, including military personnel and young recruits performing mandatory military service.
Why is MINFAR facing criticism?
MINFAR is criticized for its lack of transparency and communication regarding the Camagüey accident and the Holguín explosions, leading to public distrust.