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Today's Top News from Cuba: September 19, 2024

Thursday, September 19, 2024 by Richard Morales

Today's Top News from Cuba: September 19, 2024
Cuban Minister of Energy and Mines - Image by © Collage Facebook / Lázaro Manuel Alonso and CiberCuba

El Micha Defends His Visits to Cuba: "That Poison Isn't in the Air"

Cuban reggaeton artist El Micha has returned to the island after a four-year absence, sparking controversy with his comments on life in Cuba and exile. In a recent interview, he claimed that "that poison" perceived by exiled Cubans is not present in the island's atmosphere. The artist emphasized that his return was essential for his personal and professional happiness and defended his right to pursue his career without political involvement.

Help Sought to Identify Stabbed Youth in Santiago de Cuba

An urgent appeal has been made on social media to identify a young man who was stabbed and taken to Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba. The young man, who was without identification at the time of admission, is receiving medical care, and authorities are asking the public for help in locating his family.

Cuban Fisherman Reports Boat Stolen by Rafters

Cuban fisherman Fermín Puig reported that his boat, used to transport 43 Cuban migrants to Florida, was stolen. Puig claims he "has lost everything" and denies any involvement in the illegal departure of the rafters, who were intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Woman in Camagüey Assaulted; Police Inaction Criticized

Marisol Peña Cobas took to social media to denounce the gender violence suffered by her niece in Camagüey. The young woman was attacked by her ex-partner, but the police closed the case without taking action against the assailant. The victim's family expresses outrage over the lack of protection and justice.

Energy Minister Claims Fuel to Ease Blackouts Is at Cuban Ports

Cuban Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy announced that the fuel needed to alleviate the electrical crisis is "at Cuban ports" but has not yet been unloaded. Despite the promises, the critical situation of the National Electric System persists, with daily blackouts affecting the population.

Cuban Bank Withholds Dollar Earnings from Doctors After Angola Mission

A pair of Cuban doctors reported that the Banco Popular de Ahorro has been withholding their dollar earnings for nearly a year after their mission in Angola. Despite filing several complaints, the doctors have not been able to access their funds, preventing them from purchasing a home and gaining independence.

"Aguas de La Habana" Criticized for Wasting Water Amid Capital's Shortages

Residents of Havana have criticized the company "Aguas de La Habana" for failing to repair a pipeline issue that has resulted in a significant water leak. Meanwhile, many families in the capital are suffering from water shortages.

Desperate Mother Seeks Missing Son in Havana

A Cuban mother has turned to social media to seek help in finding her son, who has been missing for five days in Havana. The family urges anyone with information to contact them immediately.

Currency Rates Stable in Cuba's Informal Market

Cuba's informal currency market shows relative stability, with the U.S. dollar trading at 320 Cuban pesos and the euro at 330 pesos. Despite this stability, prices remain high for those reliant on state salaries, pushing them closer to extreme poverty.

Priest Teaches Rural Communities to Generate Income by Recycling Cans

Amid Cuba's economic crisis, a Catholic priest in Santiago de Cuba has taught his community to generate income by recycling aluminum cans. The priest aims to promote self-sufficiency and communal cooperation during these challenging times.

State Security Detains Cuban Intellectual Jenny Pantoja

Dissident intellectual Jenny Pantoja Torres was detained by the political police in Cuba. Pantoja had been harassed by State Security and was under surveillance before her arrest. Human rights organizations are demanding her immediate release.

Elderly Man Recovers Stolen Bicycle in Bayamo with Community's Help

An elderly man in Bayamo recovered his stolen bicycle thanks to the local community's efforts. The store owners where the bicycle was taken expressed gratitude to those who helped identify the thief, highlighting the importance of community action against crime.

State Media Highlights Arrival of Rice and Salt for Rationed Family Basket

Amid Cuba's supply crisis, state media reported the arrival of rice and salt at the port of Cienfuegos, destined for the rationed family basket. These essential products, sourced from Vietnam, are crucial for the Cuban population amid the ongoing shortages.

Man in Cienfuegos Faces Prison for "Disrespecting High Officials"

The Cienfuegos Prosecutor's Office has requested a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for a man accused of "disrespecting high officials" in a family WhatsApp group. The case has stirred controversy due to the lack of freedom of expression on the island.

Key Issues in Cuba: Current Events and Public Concerns

Amidst the various challenges facing Cuba, the following questions and answers aim to provide deeper insights into the most pressing issues currently affecting the island.

Why did El Micha return to Cuba?

El Micha returned to Cuba to find personal and professional happiness, stating that the negative atmosphere perceived by exiled Cubans isn't present on the island.

What is the situation with the electrical crisis in Cuba?

Despite assurances from the Energy Minister that fuel is available at Cuban ports, the electrical crisis remains unresolved, with daily blackouts continuing to affect the population.

How are Cuban doctors affected by the Banco Popular de Ahorro?

Cuban doctors have reported that their dollar earnings have been withheld by the bank for nearly a year, preventing them from accessing their funds and achieving financial independence.

What actions are being taken against the waste of water in Havana?

Residents are criticizing "Aguas de La Habana" for not repairing a significant pipeline issue, leading to water waste while many families face water shortages.

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