On Wednesday, officials from Cuba's regime in Ciego de Ávila declined to participate in a program broadcasted by the newspaper Invasor on its YouTube channel. According to a Facebook post by the weekly publication, representatives from the municipal administration in Ciego de Ávila were invited by the provincial government's communication department to discuss the city's nightlife.
The officials were expected to address the operations of cultural institutions, dining establishments, and night centers, a sensitive topic they ultimately chose to avoid by not appearing. Their absence led to the cancellation of the live broadcast.
Invasor has demanded an explanation from the authorities. This is not the first instance where leaders in Ciego de Ávila have failed to meet with official journalists. Last March, agriculture officials also did not show up for an interview with Inna Abella, another journalist from Invasor. The interview was supposed to focus on the control over land possession, use, and legality in Cuba. Their decision to avoid the meeting, in Abella's view, contradicts the government's communication policy.
Instances of officials failing to engage with regime media are becoming increasingly common. The State has not disclosed any disciplinary actions against those who fail to provide necessary information to the public. In February 2024, officials left journalist Miguel Reyes Mendoza waiting during a television program in Guantánamo, where they were supposed to discuss the Food Sovereignty Law and nutrition in Cuba.
Ciego de Ávila Government Avoids Public Accountability
Why did officials in Ciego de Ávila avoid the program on nightlife?
Officials avoided the program to evade discussing the contentious topic of the city's nightlife, which involves the management of cultural and dining venues.
Has this happened before with officials in Ciego de Ávila?
Yes, similar incidents have occurred, such as when agriculture officials did not attend an interview about land control with journalist Inna Abella.
Are there consequences for officials who avoid media interviews?
There is no indication that the State has imposed any sanctions on officials who fail to provide information to the public.