The detention of Héctor Julio Cedeño, a 71-year-old man who was selling candy on Monte and Factoría streets in Havana, has sparked outrage among pedestrians and street vendors in the area. Known for his opposition to the regime, Cedeño has frequently reported harassment by the police and State Security, who he claims are trying to thwart his sole means of survival amid Cuba's severe economic crisis, as highlighted by CubaNet in a video shared on Facebook.
During the arrest, witnesses expressed their displeasure, shouting phrases like "There is hunger," underscoring the population's growing desperation due to resource scarcity and the crackdown on those attempting to survive through informal work. "And then they don't want it filmed and uploaded," a woman is heard saying as she witnesses the police's harsh treatment of the elderly man. "Leave him alone, he's just trying to make a living," she added, defending the man's right to earn a dignified living.
The video also captures boos directed at both uniformed and plainclothes officers who forcibly and against Cedeño's will managed to place him in a police vehicle. The scene fueled anger among onlookers, who voiced their disapproval of the police actions.
Increased Police Presence Heightens Tensions
The incident has led to a surge in police presence in the area, with more officers and inspectors patrolling the vicinity, thereby amplifying pressure on other street vendors who protested Cedeño's arrest, as noted by the cited news outlet. This case adds to a series of crackdowns on informal work in Cuba, a practice that has become increasingly widespread due to economic hardship and a lack of job opportunities.
Crackdown on Informal Economy Intensifies
It is not the first time the regime has targeted humble street vendors who strive to earn a decent living, often after being neglected by the government. Last December, a distressing scene unfolded at Havana's International Airport, where a child selling candy was taken into a police vehicle. Mario Vallejo, a journalist from Univision 23, shared a video on Facebook showing the young boy walking away in tears as an officer approached him. The child held a paint bucket, presumably filled with candy.
The incident occurred in Terminal 3 of the airport. Although the boy walked away, he could not prevent the agents from placing him in the police car and taking him away. Additionally, in December, the Cuban regime intensified its control over the informal economy, focusing on kiosks and sales points along highways, main roads, and streets.
During a Council of Ministers meeting led by Manuel Marrero Cruz, a program of actions was approved to eliminate irregularities detected in these establishments. According to authorities, these include illegal construction, tax evasion, violations of urban planning regulations, and the absence of formal contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Informal Work in Cuba
Why was Héctor Julio Cedeño arrested?
Héctor Julio Cedeño was arrested for selling candy on the streets, which is part of the informal work sector that the Cuban regime is cracking down on.
What is the significance of informal work in Cuba?
Informal work is crucial in Cuba as it provides a means of survival for many amid the economic crisis and scarcity of formal job opportunities.
How has the Cuban regime responded to informal work?
The regime has intensified efforts to control and crack down on informal work by increasing police presence and enforcing regulations against it.