A former member of Fidel Castro's personal security team, who now teaches at the "Hermanos Marañón" Academy under the MININT in Santiago de Cuba, embarked on an extraordinary journey of more than 500 miles on foot from Santiago de Cuba to Havana. This trek, completed in 30 days, was his tribute to Castro in the centennial year of the late dictator.
His name is José Luis Pérez Balart, a 64-year-old who claims his "battery is solar energy."
On April 30th, Pérez Balart set off with little fanfare, deceiving his wife by stating he was merely walking to Birán, Castro's birthplace, though his true intention was to traverse the entire island.
"If I told you the truth, you wouldn't have let me go, that's for sure. That's why I kept it quiet. It was a little white lie to fulfill a dream I've had for many years," he explained without any hint of regret, highlighting the regime's impact on several generations of Cubans.
The regime, having declared 2026 as the "Year of the Centenary of the Commander in Chief," not only sanctioned his endeavor but also provided him with a pair of sneakers and a flag.
The Regime's Support for a Loyalist
This devoted Castro follower found shelter in facilities belonging to the MININT, the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR), the People's Power, and the Association of Combatants. The entire revolutionary infrastructure was at his disposal for this journey.
However, the most remarkable aspect isn't just the distance covered but the unique technique he employs.
Walking Technique Inspired by Eastern Practices
To avoid fatigue, Pérez Balart uses what he describes as a "Chinese technique of filling and emptying": "a sway that shifts weight from one leg to the other, synchronized with arm movements and with the tip of the tongue touching the upper gum's meridian to keep the yin and yang in circular motion."
He walks between seven and nine hours a day at a pace of about four to five miles per hour, beginning his journey at 5:15 AM. Additionally, he practices "empty mind" meditation: "No thoughts, whether good or bad, should linger."
Amidst Cuba's Energy Crisis
This homage takes place as Cuba faces its worst energy crisis in decades during May 2026. The island suffers from an electricity deficit exceeding 2,000 megawatts, with 61% experiencing blackouts during peak hours, while the UN reports over three months of insufficient fuel supply. For many Cubans, walking isn't a heroic act but a necessity.
Undeterred by reaching Havana, Pérez Balart plans to continue along the route of the mambí invasion to Cape San Antonio in Pinar del Río—where he promises to "dip his feet in the sea"—visit the Presidio Modelo on the Isle of Youth, and walk to Duaba and Playitas de Cajobabo in Holguín.
His ultimate goal is to arrive in Santiago de Cuba by July 26, marking the anniversary of the Moncada Barracks assault.
"Then I'll say, commander, I've fulfilled my promise to you," he declared. And in case there was any doubt about his devotion: "I was, am, and will be until the last moment of my life. I'm sure one of my final thoughts will be about the commander."
Understanding the Journey of José Luis Pérez Balart
What motivated José Luis Pérez Balart to walk from Santiago to Havana?
Pérez Balart's journey was a tribute to Fidel Castro in the year marking the centennial of the dictator's birth. He aimed to fulfill a long-held personal dream and honor his commitment to Castro.
How did Pérez Balart sustain his energy during the walk?
Pérez Balart claimed that his "battery is solar energy," utilizing a unique walking technique inspired by Eastern practices and meditation to maintain his stamina.