Despite facing a severe energy crisis with power outages lasting over 15 hours, the Cuban government continues to organize events like the Cultural Week in Camagüey, running until February 7. This effort to project an image of normalcy starkly contrasts with the grim reality experienced by the Cuban populace.
Many social media users have criticized the government for holding such celebrations while most of Camagüey remains in darkness due to prolonged blackouts. Among the critics is Nicolay Martínez Fleitas, who expressed on Facebook that, although some cultural activities are well-organized, many others squander fuel and electricity on performances that end in drunkenness, misconduct, and poor customer service, all for the sole purpose of making money.
Martínez emphasized that the majority of the population lacks access to basic necessities, with families unable to cook because of a lack of liquefied gas, children suffering in the heat without fans, and residents enduring long hours of darkness and uncertainty amid widespread power outages.
He also condemned the lack of planning from the government and the provincial electric company, accusing them of making decisions without considering the impact on citizens. As an example, he highlighted the situation of a 26-story building in the Plaza de la Revolución, where power cuts pose a life-threatening risk due to its unusual conditions.
"Leaving the residents of the tallest building with unconventional conditions in such a massive blackout is a negligence of those who planned and approved it. If any incident occurs there, putting human lives at risk, who will be held accountable?" he questioned.
Similarly, Facebook user Dariel Chito questioned the relevance of the Cultural Week in Camagüey, pointing out that the celebration coincides with a context where the province is experiencing power outages exceeding 15 hours daily, making it nearly impossible to perform basic household tasks.
"Today, February 2, the Cultural Week in Camagüey begins. I found out because I heard music and a commemorative act was held. The strangest and most contradictory thing is that in this province, the blackouts are already exceeding 15 hours, and literally, you have no time to do anything at home," he expressed in his post.
In addition to the energy collapse, the user highlighted the scarcity of liquefied gas, which hasn't reached the province for over four months, forcing locals to cook with coal or wood—a situation that has become "normalized" in the daily lives of many families.
He also criticized rampant inflation, stating that food prices are constantly rising while availability decreases. Even private vendors have chosen not to sell meat products due to long power cuts, which risk spoiling the food and result in "massive financial losses" for their businesses.
"I have nothing against culture and festivities, but a bit of common sense and attachment to reality is needed. The situation isn't suitable for these kinds of activities," he asserted, highlighting that the province faces more pressing issues than a week of celebrations.
In his post, he concluded with a phrase reflecting the frustration of many Cubans: "There is less bread and more circuses in Cuba, but one can't exist without the other. Now let me finish cooking with coal, make some coffee, and then go to sleep."
The Cuban government's decision to hold the Cultural Week in Camagüey might seem absurd, but it isn't the first time the regime has prioritized spectacles over the urgent needs of the population. In October, while much of Cuba was plunged into darkness after the collapse of the National Electric System, the regime conducted the Celebration of Cubanía in Bayamo, despite having ordered the suspension of all non-essential activities.
The pro-government newspaper La Demajagua shared a video on Facebook showing a gala honoring the first rendition of the National Anthem and paying tribute to Cuban culture in the Plaza del Himno in Bayamo. Meanwhile, the eastern territories of Maisí and Baracoa were battered by Hurricane Oscar, and the energy crisis deepened with the collapse of the Renté thermoelectric plant, leaving Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo without power once again.
However, the regime's and Granma government's indifference did not end with a gala featuring horses and attire reminiscent of the era when the Bayamo Anthem was composed. At night, while millions lay awake worrying about spoiling food, the activities continued.
Addressing the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is causing the prolonged power outages in Cuba?
The extended power outages in Cuba are primarily due to the collapse of the National Electric System and the worsening energy crisis exacerbated by the lack of maintenance and investment in infrastructure.
How are Cuban citizens coping with the energy crisis?
Cuban citizens are coping by using alternatives such as coal or wood for cooking due to scarce liquefied gas, enduring long hours without electricity, and facing challenges in food preservation and inflation.
Why is the Cultural Week in Camagüey controversial?
The Cultural Week in Camagüey is controversial because it diverts attention and resources away from urgent needs amid severe power outages, highlighting a disconnect between government priorities and the population's realities.