The recent trip made by Miguel Díaz-Canel to Santiago de Cuba resulted in a greater presence of security personnel than actual solutions, as highlighted by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada. Despite the official entourage, the devastation remains untouched, and genuine assistance is yet to reach those severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
As Thursday came and went, so did the hopes of many residents of Cayo Granma who had been prepared for the leader's arrival. According to Mayeta's account on Facebook, the area was filled with "more security than locals," and once the official spectacle concluded, the scene remained unchanged: damaged homes, exposed roofs, and residents still awaiting aid that, they claim, never materializes.
The community-shared images echo this reality. The blue roof of the pier—crucial for residents' mobility—remains broken. Conversely, another blue roof belonging to the relative of delegate-deputy Sandy Almeida's son was swiftly repaired, despite the family having "coincidentally" moved into the home just three days before the hurricane. They also received a mattress, a pot, and a new roof.
"Where there's a will, there's a way... but only for some," Mayeta summarizes.
The Overlooked Stories: A Different Side of Cayo
Meanwhile, stories like that of Manuela ("Nela"), an elderly woman living alone, highlight the disparity in resource distribution. Her home lost its roof, just as it did during Hurricane Sandy, when only old, now-rotten wooden patches were provided. Following the recent disaster, she remains waiting for an official response.
Another local, retired Colonel Marcelo, has managed to make progress only thanks to a supportive MIPYME from Havana that has installed several roofs as an act of solidarity. "The MIPYMEs, they truly deserve respect," remarked a resident, noting that private entrepreneurs and young military service members have been the most helpful.
"If it weren't for them, no one else would have come," Mayeta cites.
Empty Promises in the Wind
Despite the presidential visit and official speeches, conditions in Cayo remain stagnant: roofs are still in ruins, homes exposed to the elements, state assistance absent, and promises continue to be mere rhetoric.
Mayeta argues that this aligns with a familiar pattern: "living off tall tales," filling reports, and maintaining appearances for public opinion, while the community remains in disrepair.
The "Official Image" vs. Reality
The journalist also contradicted the narrative presented by state media regarding a woman who warmly welcomed Díaz-Canel. According to Mayeta, Teresa, who appeared smiling and grateful in official videos, has received numerous donations from a social aid group (Conducta): refrigerator, bed, electric pots, clothing, and more.
However, neighbors claim she has resold all that was given to her and continues to seek assistance. Nevertheless, she was chosen as the "image of gratitude" during the official visit.
"The visit came and went... and the story remains unchanged."
The prevailing sentiment among Cayo residents is one of fatigue and disillusionment. "The people are weary, but not blind," Mayeta warns. After the presidential visit, the cameras left, the security detail dispersed, the entourage vanished... yet the issues persist right where they were. "Of real help, nothing."
Insights into the Aftermath of Díaz-Canel's Visit to Santiago de Cuba
What was the outcome of Díaz-Canel's visit to Santiago de Cuba?
The visit resulted in a heightened security presence but no tangible solutions, leaving the destruction from Hurricane Melissa unaddressed and the affected populace without real assistance.
How did the local community react to the visit?
Residents expressed disappointment and frustration, as they saw no change in their circumstances after the visit, with promises remaining unfulfilled and aid not reaching those in need.
Who has been helping the affected residents of Cayo?
Private entrepreneurs and young military service members have been the primary sources of aid, providing support where official assistance has not been forthcoming.