Starting October 18, 2024, Cuba has been plunged into complete darkness due to the disconnection of the National Electric System (SEN), triggered by the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant. This blackout has left millions of Cubans without power, and while officials have stated efforts are underway to restore service, they have acknowledged that there is "no set timeline for the restoration."
Public Outcry on Social Media
In light of this situation, our platform reached out to readers via Facebook with the question, "Should Cuba's leaders resign?" The response was overwhelming, with numerous messages expressing widespread frustration and disapproval of the current leadership.
One commenter, A.F., remarked, "They should have resigned years ago!" reflecting the dissatisfaction with the lack of effective solutions. Similarly, M.C. was forthright, stating, "Yes, but quickly, without looking back. Out now!" emphasizing the urgency of the matter. R.S. echoed a call for drastic change, suggesting, "Let them go and hand over the country."
Viewing the Blackout as Part of a Larger Crisis
Many comments highlight the perception that Cuba's issues extend beyond just power outages. O.R. noted, "The only problem Cuba has isn't just the blackouts," resonating with a broad sentiment that the issues are deeply rooted and systemic. In a more critical tone, M.L. declared, "Let the dictatorship fall. Cubans should take to the streets to protest," underscoring the desperate desire for societal change.
Ongoing Frustration and Calls for Accountability
The comments also reflect accumulated frustration from years of crisis. J.L.G. stated, "They needed to leave long ago. When people emigrate, their leaders become redundant." This sense of abandonment and disappointment was evident, with calls for resignation and hints of emotional exhaustion, like L.F.'s comment: "The blackouts are just the tip of the iceberg; they should not just resign but be tried for crimes against humanity."
Demand for New Leadership
Cubans are also expressing dissatisfaction with how the current crisis is being managed. Y.L. suggested that if there was any dignity left, the leaders should step down. G.M. was more direct, asserting, "There are plenty of arguments," indicating a clear need for political change in the country.
Some, like M.P., wryly pointed out the long wait for solutions, mentioning, "Since '59." Others, such as A.T., stressed the immediacy of change, insisting, "Immediately."
The majority of messages convey a decisive rejection of the current leadership, whom many believe have driven the country to a state of collapse and hopelessness. M.C. encapsulated the sentiment of many with a straightforward remark: "Yes, they should have done it years ago."
A Call for Comprehensive Change
In conclusion, the comments in response to the question posed by CiberCuba Noticias clearly illustrate that the public is not only demanding a change in policies but a complete overhaul of the power structure. The persistent lack of solutions and the absence of a clear strategy to overcome the crisis have entirely eroded the public's trust in their leaders. Today, Cubans are calling for an end not only to the blackouts but to a regime they view as primarily responsible for their hardships.