The "Nuestra América" convoy has been spotted traversing the streets of Havana in electric vehicles, sparking reactions on social media due to the stark contrast with the severe transportation crisis plaguing the Cuban people.
In a video shared by journalist Mario J. Pentón, attributed to activist Magdiel Castro, members of the group are seen cruising through the capital in small electric vehicles, singing “La Guantanamera” as they parade through the city.
Roberto Suárez posted a photo on Facebook showing a lineup of these vehicles near the Palace of Conventions. He praised the potential of these transport means: “I liked seeing these units. A great savings and alternative. Imagine how transportation in the capital would improve with a thousand of these little cars.” He also noted that “they even have solar panels on the roofs,” and that their use “makes these events possible.”
Despite Suárez's 'optimistic' outlook, other users expressed discontent. Even with restricted comments on the post, numerous messages criticized the use of these vehicles for activities involving visitors while the general population struggles with serious transportation issues.
One user commented, “These toys are for events and foreigners. For the people, maybe horse-drawn carts,” while another pointed out: “If your leaders allowed Cubans to freely engage in entrepreneurship without the government’s total control over the economy, we wouldn’t have so many problems. Anyone could have a fleet of buses, taxis, bicycles, rental vehicles, etc., like in the rest of the free world, but for some unknown reason, in Cuba, only the state can do it, and well... you know how the transportation is.”
Visitor Treatment vs. Local Reality
The criticism also highlighted the disparity between the treatment of visitors and the everyday reality: “For outsiders, if necessary, they even roll out a magic carpet! But for those at home, it’s just more of the same struggles.” Other users claimed to have seen these vehicles not providing service: “For three days straight, I’ve seen a caravan, the stops crowded, people signaling, and nothing.”
The convoy's presence in Cuba is part of an international initiative that has gathered hundreds of activists and left-wing political figures in Havana from dozens of countries, including Pablo Iglesias, Jeremy Corbyn, and others who have expressed support for the Cuban government. The initiative included delivering food, medicine, and solar equipment as part of an action touted as solidarity in the midst of an economic and energy crisis.
Political Agenda and Local Criticism
During their stay, the group participated in official activities and tours around the capital, including meetings with state institutions and government figures like Mariela Castro. Critics have interpreted the agenda as a political support exercise, similar to previous exchanges with official entities.
The convoy's journey through Havana was also marked by events at the Palace of Conventions, where Miguel Díaz-Canel led a meeting with the participants and thanked them for their presence and support amidst the country's challenges. The event emphasized the notion of international support for the Cuban government, coinciding with the group's visit.
The leader highlighted that the convoy participants manage their own travel and lodging expenses and contribute donations, which he described as a sign of solidarity during a challenging time for the nation.
These activities unfold against a backdrop of severe economic and energy crises, with prolonged blackouts, fuel shortages, and a deteriorated transportation system limiting daily mobility for the population.
Public Discontent and Irony
In this scenario, criticism of what some see as a disconnect between the visitors' experience and the country's reality has intensified. Comedian Ulises Toirac ironically suggested that convoy members live for a month with “4000 CUP per person (without working for it), the ration book, a mobile phone with an ETECSA line, and see them after a month,” highlighting the living conditions on the island in his social media post.
Similarly, journalist Yoani Sánchez questioned the nature of these visits, stating: “We are not a theme park. Go do ideological tourism elsewhere. Here, we are suffering,” expressing the discontent felt by some citizens.
Criticism also emerged from platforms and voices questioning the coherence of those defending the Cuban model from abroad while returning to countries with different economic systems.
In this context, images of the convoy moving through Havana in electric vehicles, singing "Guantanamera," underscore the contrast between these visitors' experiences and the daily hardships faced by a population still grappling with significant transportation challenges.
Understanding the Transport Crisis in Cuba
What is the Convoy Nuestra América?
The Convoy Nuestra América is an international initiative that brings together activists and left-wing political figures in Havana to support the Cuban government. It includes delivering food, medicine, and solar equipment as part of a solidarity action.
How are electric vehicles used in Cuba by the convoy?
The convoy uses electric vehicles to travel through Havana, showcasing a potential alternative means of transport. However, these vehicles are perceived to be for events and visitors rather than addressing the local transportation crisis.
Why are Cubans critical of the convoy's presence?
Cubans are critical because the convoy's use of electric vehicles highlights the disparity between the treatment of visitors and the daily struggles of the local population, particularly in the face of a severe transportation crisis.