Amidst the worsening socio-economic turmoil in Cuba, the Cuban regime continues to allocate substantial resources to ensure the execution of the so-called "March of the Combative People," scheduled for December 20 in Havana. This event, seen by many as a propagandistic spectacle, highlights the regime's priorities despite the island's dire situation.
An example of the resources dedicated to this event is the recent "plenary" meeting held by the Municipal Assembly of People's Power (AMPP) of Centro Habana at the America Theater. The meeting aimed to coordinate the political support for the march and was publicized on social media with images of the full attendance.
“Plenary for the political assurance of the combative march of the revolutionary people on December 20. The America Theater is currently packed with committed residents of Centro Habana. We will be there #WithTheStrengthOfUnity,” the municipal government body announced on Facebook.
The America Theater, which can accommodate 1,775 people, was nearly filled during the session. Most attendees were representatives of mass organizations, local government officials, authorities, and Communist Party members, all pledging to ensure the march's success, according to the AMPP of Centro Habana.
However, this show of force occurs against a backdrop of rapidly deteriorating living conditions across the island. Cuba is grappling with one of the worst economic crises in recent history, marked by shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, alongside a widespread collapse of basic services. The population is enduring prolonged power outages, inefficient public transportation, and skyrocketing prices due to rampant inflation.
In this context, organizing the march has sparked criticism both domestically and internationally. The use of state resources to fund a political event while most Cubans struggle to make ends meet illustrates a stark disconnect between government priorities and the people's genuine needs.
Significant amounts of diesel are expected to be used to light streets and transport demonstrators from various provinces. This expenditure starkly contrasts with the reality of constant blackouts and entire neighborhoods plunged into darkness due to a lack of fuel for electricity generation.
Analysts suggest that such propagandistic events aim to project an image of internal strength and political cohesion, attempting to divert attention from the country's structural crisis. Nonetheless, for many Cubans, the march symbolizes the government's failure to address urgent issues and its inability to provide effective solutions.
The administration of Miguel Díaz-Canel has chosen to resort to these public demonstrations instead of implementing deep reforms that could alleviate the economic situation. While the state organizes massive propaganda acts, the everyday life of Cubans continues to deteriorate, fueling social discontent and despair.
Understanding the Impact of Cuba's "March of the Combative People"
What is the purpose of the "March of the Combative People" in Cuba?
The march is intended as a political demonstration to project an image of internal strength and unity, despite the country's ongoing crisis.
How are resources being allocated for the march?
Significant state resources, including diesel for street lighting and transportation, are being allocated to ensure the event's success, despite widespread shortages.
Why is the march controversial?
The event is controversial because it diverts resources away from addressing urgent needs of the population, highlighting a disconnect between government actions and citizens' struggles.