In the midst of one of Cuba's most challenging periods in recent history, Miguel Díaz-Canel declared on February 24 that he is prepared to "change whatever must be changed" within the country's institutions.
This statement was made during a public parliamentary session marking the 50th anniversary of the People's Power system, a date laden with historical significance for the regime.
As reported by Canal Caribe, the leader emphasized that this anniversary should serve as "a turning point, not the ultimate goal," insisting on decisive action in the face of current hardships.
Upon acknowledging the economic challenges facing the island, Díaz-Canel pledged to fight, persevere, and transform, asserting that the nation "will prevail." "We will fight, struggle, endure, transform, and in the face of all adversities and imperial threats, we will rise and conquer," the president stated.
Beyond the usual rhetoric, the standout phrase of his speech was the commitment to transform "everything that needs to be changed," always—with the stated aim—of enhancing social justice, equity, and the people's conscious participation.
Díaz-Canel defended the People's Power bodies as the direct link between "the aspirations and demands of each neighborhood" and state policies, urging that the anniversary be seen as a call to action rather than a nostalgic exercise.
His remarks come at a time when millions of Cubans are grappling with extended power outages, rampant inflation, food and medicine shortages, deteriorating transportation, and a relentless wave of emigration.
Meanwhile, in the neighborhoods he referenced, the question remains: what will truly change and when will it begin to be felt at the dinner table, in their wallets, and in the lights that go out each night?
Cuban Crisis and Institutional Changes: Key Questions
What did Díaz-Canel promise to change in Cuba?
Díaz-Canel promised to "change whatever must be changed" within the country's institutions to tackle the current crisis effectively.
What challenges is Cuba facing currently?
Cuba is dealing with extended power outages, uncontrollable inflation, shortages of food and medicine, deteriorating public transportation, and a massive wave of emigration.
How does Díaz-Canel view the 50th anniversary of the People's Power system?
Díaz-Canel sees the 50th anniversary as a turning point and a call to action rather than a celebration, urging for decisive measures to address the country's issues.