In the wake of Nicolás Maduro's apprehension by U.S. forces in Venezuela, Cuban activists and opposition leaders have released a video calling for national mobilization and democratic transition in Cuba, asserting that "Cuba's time has come."
The video, shared on social media under the slogan, "Cubans, we have a plan and are ready for change," features prominent figures from the Cuban exile community and dissidents. They expressed that the transformative events in Venezuela signal the beginning of a new era for the region.
Among those voicing the call to action were Rosa María Payá, a key figure behind the Cuba Decide platform, Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, spokesperson for the Cuban Democratic Directorate and member of the Assembly of the Cuban Resistance, unionist Iván Hernández Carrillo, influencer Alexander Otaola, and Ramón Saúl Sánchez, leader of the Democracy Movement. These individuals, along with other civil society actors, emphasized the urgency of the message.
The joint statement highlighted Venezuela's transition towards democracy, expressing hope that it will culminate in freedom. "As the Venezuelan people have elected Edmundo González as president and María Corina Machado as vice president, Cubans are prepared to reclaim our sovereignty," the manifesto declared.
The activists underscored that Cuba's path to democracy is "irreversible," noting that both the internal and external opposition possess a strategic plan for political transition and national reconstruction, grounded in social justice, human rights, and respect for sovereignty.
“The night will not last forever,” proclaimed the message, concluding with a direct appeal to Cubans of all generations, "both inside and outside the country," to unite for change. “Young and old, Cuba’s time has come. We are ready for change and transition,” stated one of the participants.
The activists also called on the international community: “We urge the governments and democracies of the world to support our rightful claim to live in freedom,” one spokesperson requested.
The video, widely circulated among Cuban users on social media and exile communities, aligns with regional expectations following the U.S. intervention in Venezuela. Many online observers see Maduro's capture as a harbinger of the end of authoritarianism in Latin America.
“You can't clean the living room and leave the kitchen dirty,” one message concluded, suggesting that the fall of Chavismo won't be complete as long as the Cuban regime remains in power.
“Cuba will be free. We have a plan, and we are ready for change,” the activists proclaimed in unison, setting the tone for a renewed civic push for the island's freedom.
Key Questions on Cuba's Call for Change
What triggered the call for mobilization in Cuba?
The call was triggered by the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, which Cuban activists see as a pivotal moment for regional change.
Who are the key figures in this movement?
Prominent figures include Rosa María Payá, Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, Iván Hernández Carrillo, Alexander Otaola, and Ramón Saúl Sánchez.
How do activists plan to achieve change in Cuba?
Activists propose a strategic plan for political transition and national reconstruction, focusing on social justice, human rights, and sovereignty.