In the midst of a heated exchange between the Cuban government and Cuban-American activist Carlos Lazo, the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) has stated that it has "never refused direct donations to its institutions." Lazo, who is aligned with the regime and leads the Puentes de Amor movement, claimed last week that "Cuban authorities are imposing restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and powdered milk to pediatric hospitals on the island," thereby hindering the humanitarian efforts his organization has been conducting for the Cuban people for years.
An official statement from the ministry emphasized that "the Ministry of Public Health has never refused direct donations to its institutions" and clarified that "those wishing to donate directly simply need to notify beforehand. This is intended to ensure an orderly donation process that does not disrupt the healthcare and administrative operations of the medical facilities."
The statement cites several examples of successful direct donations and notes, "With the arrival of each donation, even when not delivered in person, authorities at each health institution send graphic evidence of the receipt of resources to donors, along with notes and messages of gratitude on behalf of healthcare professionals and patients who benefit from the aid."
Following the release of this official statement, Lazo responded on Facebook, suggesting the controversy was over and advocating for unity, warning that "tough times are coming." In a personal anecdote shared on Facebook about "disagreements among neighbors," the activist expressed, "We've been pulling our hair out, both here and there. Good people, united in the neighborhood and family, calling for our heads," and concluded, "The truth is, the neighborhood must prepare because hard times are approaching."
"The neighbors will need to embrace each other because what's coming from the north is a massive storm. If we don't face it tightly united, it will sweep us away," he emphasized in his message.
Lazo's journey as a public figure is complex. In 2022, his outspoken support for lifting the embargo, his visits to Cuba, and meetings with the Cuban government drew significant criticism from the exile community in Miami. The Cuban community in Florida even organized a campaign on Change.org, gathering over 10,000 signatures to declare him "persona non grata," accusing him of being a regime sympathizer.
Understanding the MINSAP and Carlos Lazo Controversy
What accusations did Carlos Lazo make against the Cuban government?
Carlos Lazo accused Cuban authorities of imposing restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and powdered milk to pediatric hospitals, which he claimed hindered the humanitarian work of his organization.
How did the Ministry of Public Health respond to Lazo's claims?
The Ministry of Public Health responded by stating that they have never blocked direct donations to their institutions and emphasized the importance of notifying them beforehand to ensure an organized donation process.
What has been the reaction of the Cuban exile community to Carlos Lazo?
The Cuban exile community, particularly in Florida, has been critical of Lazo, organizing a campaign to declare him "persona non grata" due to his perceived support for the Cuban regime.