The Cuban government orchestrated a propaganda spectacle right outside the home of José Daniel Ferrer, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), located in the Altamira neighborhood of Santiago de Cuba. Ferrer, a prominent opposition figure, revealed that teachers, administrators, students, and Communist Party members were coerced into participating in the demonstration, which was organized last Saturday by authorities aiming to counter the humanitarian efforts of the opposition group.
“A Communist show here in Altamira, just steps away from our national headquarters. The Communist Party, through its political police, is suppressing and staging this spectacle because they are bothered by our efforts to feed and heal the very needy,” Ferrer stated in a video shared on social media.
The activist elaborated that authorities transported workers and students from various institutions to the area to create an illusion of popular support against UNPACU’s activities. Recently, the organization has resumed its community support efforts, focusing on distributing food and medicine to vulnerable individuals.
In the past few weeks, hundreds have visited the UNPACU headquarters seeking food, medication, or basic assistance, prompting a strong reaction from the repressive state apparatus. Ferrer has reported an increase in police surveillance, arbitrary arrests, and intimidation tactics against neighbors and collaborators, all aimed at halting the group's charitable initiatives.
“Repression isn't enough for them; now they resort to circus-like shows,” the opposition leader criticized, expressing regret that the regime attempts to “compete” with civil initiatives without offering real solutions to the severe social crisis facing the country.
Cuban Government's Opposition Tactics
What was the purpose of the propaganda event organized by the Cuban government?
The event was organized to counteract the humanitarian activities of the UNPACU by creating an illusion of popular support for the government's stance, using coerced participation from teachers, students, and Communist Party members.
How has the government responded to UNPACU's community support efforts?
The government has increased police surveillance, conducted arbitrary arrests, and used intimidation tactics against neighbors and UNPACU collaborators to impede the group's charitable activities.
What kind of assistance is UNPACU providing to the community?
UNPACU is actively distributing food and medicine to people in need, aiming to support those in vulnerable situations amid Cuba's ongoing social crisis.