The Cuban singer-songwriter Haydée Milanés delivered a powerful and heartfelt message this Sunday about the dire situation her homeland is facing. She criticized the inefficiency and apathy of the communist regime, which she accuses of being solely focused on maintaining absolute power at the expense of the island's people.
Milanés voiced her despair on Facebook, stating, "There are no words left to describe how bad things are in Cuba." She highlighted the pressing issues plaguing the Caribbean nation, such as food shortages, a collapsed healthcare system, and an ongoing energy crisis.
The Stark Reality of Everyday Life
The artist, daughter of the legendary troubadour Pablo Milanés, expressed sorrow over the fact that many individuals go to bed hungry and that medical care in public hospitals is so inadequate that many lives are lost due to the lack of proper treatment. She also pointed out the hypocrisy of officials not using the same healthcare services or sending their children to the same schools as the general populace.
Neglect of the Revolution's Veterans
Milanés further condemned the neglect faced by those who dedicated their lives to the revolutionary project, now left to survive on meager pensions that do not cover basic necessities. She emphasized the growing social class disparities in Cuba and questioned the lack of accountability among those responsible for the country's current state.
Political Repression and Injustice
The singer also brought attention to the more than 1,100 political prisoners in the country and detailed how those who speak out against injustices are often persecuted, monitored, and, in many cases, exiled. "Cuba is not a happy country," she concluded, emphasizing that the island does not deserve the pain and hopelessness inflicted by its leaders.
In a related development, the regime announced on Sunday the suspension of all non-essential administrative and educational activities for the next three days. This decision comes as Hurricane Oscar approaches the eastern part of the country, and efforts are underway to restore the national electrical system, which has been completely down since last Friday.
A brief statement was released on the official website and social media channels of the Cuban Presidency, informing the public of the decision to halt non-essential administrative and educational activities on Monday, October 21, Tuesday, October 22, and Wednesday, October 23, while ensuring that essential services for the population remain operational.