Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel caused an uproar among the Cuban populace on Friday when he commemorated the 108th anniversary of the October Revolution in Russia. His message, shared during a time of severe economic hardship and national decay, drew widespread mockery and resentment.
On his X account, the Cuban president honored the October Revolution, stating that "communists and those of us who align with revolutionaries, the dissatisfied, those who strive daily for a better world that only socialism can create," cherish this day with "heartfelt respect."
Accompanied by the slogan "Rise up, poor of the world!" his post incited anger among numerous users who highlighted the stark contrast between the rhetoric of those in power and the grim reality of a nation in economic collapse.
One user wryly noted, "Of course, they love the poor so much they're doing everything possible to increase their numbers." Another summed up the general sentiment: "They're celebrating a colossal failure, no wonder the country is in shambles."
Among the harshest critiques, many pointed out the hypocrisy of the official narrative. "No electricity, no fuel, no food... and you dare to post that," one user retorted.
Others highlighted the lavish lifestyles of the ruling class: "Corrupt leaders travel in luxury vehicles and wear Rolexes," commented Eddie de Velascomar.
The criticisms extended beyond sarcasm. "As you have Cuba, in extreme poverty and ruin. You want the world to be a wreck while you enrich yourselves," replied Antonia de Méndez.
Díaz-Canel's post, instead of garnering support or empathy, became a platform for citizens to voice their discontent with a leadership increasingly out of touch with the Cuban reality.
The Russian Revolution, known as the October Revolution, took place on the 25th of that month in 1917 according to the Julian calendar used in Russia at that time, and on November 7th in the Gregorian calendar used elsewhere.
The name remains due to the original date when the Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Ilich Lenin (1870-1924), seized power by storming the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, marking the Bolshevik triumph and the beginning of the socialist state in Russia.
Earlier, Díaz-Canel adopted a syrupy and triumphant tone while addressing the country's crisis following Hurricane Melissa, claiming that Cubans are "as resilient as palm trees that stand tall against the fiercest winds."
However, the clip of his speech, shared on CiberCuba Noticias' Facebook page, sparked a flood of reactions.
Many users expressed frustration over the disconnect between the president's words and the country's reality. Comments ranged from "Poet of disaster," to "Not resilient, just exhausted," and "Talks about unity, but the country is fractured."
Others recalled unfulfilled promises: "He always says no one will be left behind, but no help is ever seen," and "The people don't want poetry, they want solutions."
Numerous commentators also responded to the speech by the president of the National Defense Council and first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba on November 4th, during the event marking 20 years since the People's Summit and the "No to the FTAA."
"Principles are non-negotiable, and the dignity and courage of the people outweigh all the weapons of the most powerful empire in history," he declared with triumphalism, amid the country's economic, social, and health crises.
Many responses focused on the gap between the leader's words and everyday life on the island. "Two pounds of rice in the store in three months," wrote one reader. Another scoffed: "What's the point of the FTAA if there's no economic development plan, just trash-talking the prosperous neighbor."
"The puppet is disgusting now," remarked another. "Cuba is sinking under your watch, Canel. Tell Machi to pack her bags and head off with Putin," wrote a user.
One commenter noted: "Principles aren't something you can eat or drink. People don't want to endure, they want to live and not in disgrace. Stop the nonsense."
Public Reaction to Díaz-Canel's Statements
Why did Díaz-Canel's post about the October Revolution cause outrage?
His post angered many because it highlighted the disconnect between the government's rhetoric and the harsh realities faced by Cubans, who are experiencing severe economic and social challenges.
What was the significance of the October Revolution in Russia?
The October Revolution, led by the Bolsheviks under Vladimir Lenin, marked the overthrow of the provisional government and the establishment of a socialist state in Russia.
How did Cubans respond to Díaz-Canel's comments on resilience?
Many Cubans expressed frustration, pointing out the gap between his optimistic rhetoric and the everyday struggles they face, with comments emphasizing exhaustion and unfulfilled promises.