A Cuban construction worker, Erich Alain Chang Padrón, has been detained by authorities following his viral video on social media, where he fiercely criticized the government and labeled the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel as "shameless, a nobody," according to a report by journalist Mario Vallejo on Facebook.
Vallejo portrayed Erich as the primary breadwinner of his family and caretaker of his 100-year-old grandmother, emphasizing that "he wasn't asking for luxuries, just the basics: electricity, food, and dignity."
In the video, the young man described himself as a bricklayer, plumber, and electrician: "I fight every day for the bread, every day. For my children, for my grandmother, who is a hundred years old."
Erich recounted how frequent blackouts spoiled the food he had stored: "Sometimes it's ten, eleven at night, and I can't sleep thinking about what I'll eat tomorrow. Right now, look, a huge blackout. My food got spoiled. Ground meat, chicken, all spoiled."
Voicing the Nation's Distress
In the same video, the Cuban condemned a widespread crisis: "Worry about the situation in the country, which is quite chaotic. Minors are prostituting themselves, vulnerable people are eating from the trash because their salaries are insufficient."
He also declared his refusal to be silenced: "They won't shut me up, no way. Every day, I'll spread the word. I'm not a hero, nor do I want to be one."
Erich expressed suspicion that state agents were monitoring him on social media and planning to "abduct" him for speaking the truth, reminding that he is the son of a military officer.
Under the Shadow of a Severe Energy Crisis
The arrest occurs amid Cuba's worst documented energy crisis, with an electric shortfall reaching a record 2,153 MW on May 13 and standing at 2,053 MW on May 17, with only 1,147 MW available against a demand of 3,200 MW.
Erich's case is not an isolated incident. In April, a young man from Ciego de Ávila was detained and threatened with criminal charges for criticizing the government online. On the same Sunday, it was revealed that the Cuban Prosecutor's Office requested up to 13 years in prison for three UNPACU activists due to a peaceful protest against blackouts held in November 2024.
Prisoners Defenders reported that by the end of April 2026, Cuba reached an all-time high of 1,260 political prisoners, with documented instances of torture, sexual assault, and death threats within the penitentiary system. Since July 11, 2021, more than 2,048 individuals have been imprisoned in Cuba for political reasons.
Understanding Cuba's Political Detentions
What led to Erich Alain Chang Padrón's arrest?
Erich Alain Chang Padrón was arrested after posting a video on social media where he harshly criticized the Cuban government and President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
How is the current energy crisis affecting Cuba?
Cuba is facing an unprecedented energy crisis with a significant deficit between electricity demand and availability, leading to frequent blackouts that exacerbate daily living conditions.
What does the increase in political prisoners signify for Cuba?
The rise in political prisoners highlights the Cuban government's ongoing repression of dissent and the severe conditions faced by those who challenge the regime.