Cuban-American Congressman Carlos Giménez has strongly criticized the Jamaican government, accusing the country's Labour Party of shielding the Cuban dictatorship. His remarks came after comments from Prime Minister Andrew Holness regarding the situation in Cuba.
"I strongly condemn this and find it regrettable that the JLP (Jamaica Labour Party) shields the dying dictatorship in Cuba, especially after the Castro regime repeatedly meddled in Jamaican politics to heighten party tensions and undermine the JLP. Jamaica will face consequences!" Giménez stated on his official account.
The congressman was responding to a public statement by Holness, in which the Prime Minister emphasized that Cuba is a Caribbean neighbor with shared history and regional ties. He highlighted the contributions of Cuban doctors and teachers across various countries, including Jamaica.
Holness acknowledged that many Cubans are enduring severe economic hardships, power outages, and escalating humanitarian challenges. He warned that a prolonged crisis on the island could affect migration, security, and economic stability in the Caribbean.
Holness asserted that Jamaica supports democracy, human rights, accountability, and open market economies. He expressed that the current situation demands responsible leadership and constructive dialogue, particularly between Cuba and the United States, to ease tensions and encourage reforms.
Furthermore, he confirmed that Jamaica will continue to stand in solidarity with the Cuban people while supporting practical steps toward stability and shared prosperity in the region.
These statements triggered a response from Giménez, one of the most vocal critics of the Havana regime. He has consistently argued that any move to ease international pressure strengthens the power structure formally led by Miguel Díaz-Canel and controlled by the military apparatus linked to Raúl Castro.
Holness's comments came in a context where the leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) once again rallied around Cuba, this time with an explicit call for "collective action" against the increased pressure from the United States on the island.
Impact of Jamaica's Stance on Cuba
What are Carlos Giménez's criticisms of Jamaica?
Carlos Giménez criticizes Jamaica for protecting the Cuban dictatorship, accusing the Jamaican Labour Party of shielding the Cuban regime despite its interference in Jamaican politics.
How did Prime Minister Andrew Holness describe Cuba?
Andrew Holness described Cuba as a Caribbean neighbor with a shared history and highlighted the contributions of Cuban professionals such as doctors and teachers in Jamaica and other countries.
What are the potential consequences of the crisis in Cuba according to Holness?
Holness warned that a prolonged crisis in Cuba could impact migration, security, and economic stability in the Caribbean region.