In a detailed analysis posted on Facebook, Cuban economist Mauricio De Miranda Parrondo challenges the claims made by Miguel Díaz-Canel during his interview with Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo, led by journalist Mônica Bergamo.
De Miranda, a tenured professor at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Cali and a Ph.D. in International Economics from the Complutense University of Madrid, approached the subject head-on: "Cuba has a designated president—despite his claims of being elected—who throws around figures with unclear origins, showcasing either ignorance or, at worst, deceit."
Disputing Historical Claims
The academic pointed out one of Díaz-Canel's inaccuracies, stating that the illiteracy rate in Cuba before 1959 was 40%. However, the 1953 Cuban Census recorded this rate at 23.6% for individuals aged ten and above. According to the Pan American Union, Cuba was fourth in literacy in Latin America at that time, trailing only Argentina, Chile, and Costa Rica.
Another falsehood from the Cuban leader was the assertion that only 50% of the country had electricity in 1959. De Miranda contradicted this by citing the United Nations' Demographic Yearbook 1958-1959, which reported that 82.9% of Cuban homes had electricity that year. The economist sarcastically added, "What good is it if 100% of Cuba is 'electrified' when power is available only 10-20% of the time or less?"
Critiquing Economic Inequality Claims
De Miranda also refuted claims that income inequality in Cuba is lower than in capitalist nations, noting that the regime does not provide the United Nations with data on poverty or income inequality. "Allow an independent scientific study, and then we'll talk!" he demanded. Despite the lack of data, he stated that the harsh reality faced by the Cuban people clearly shows that "the vast majority live in conditions of multidimensional poverty."
Political System Misunderstandings
In discussing political systems, Díaz-Canel erroneously stated that in France, the president is elected by the parliament, and claimed that Americans cannot choose candidates, ignoring the primary system. De Miranda labeled these as "glaring mistakes that reveal ignorance even in basic matters."
Warnings to Investors
The economist found the leader's admission that private actors in Cuba's economy are "necessary concessions" to be particularly revealing. De Miranda cautioned investors: "Beware, investors, entrepreneurs; your security hangs by the thread of 'political will.' That will could change tomorrow, leaving you 'high and dry.'"
This warning is especially relevant following the approval of a package of 176 economic measures in June, which includes removing the cap of 100 workers for private small and medium-sized enterprises and allowing direct foreign investment in the private sector.
Historical Economic Context
The professor also took issue with Díaz-Canel's assertion that "socialism hasn't been allowed to develop," reminding that from 1965 to 1989, Cuba benefited from a "pipeline" of resources sent by the former USSR.
"During those years, Fidel's voluntarism led the country's economy into a dead end and the most visible condition of underdevelopment—the inability to develop. Today, Cuba is more dependent than in 1958 because the 'command and control' economic system destroyed the very foundations of the country's economy: the sugar industry, agriculture, and the entrepreneurial spirit of a dynamic business class, despite its flaws," De Miranda emphasized.
Regarding Díaz-Canel's refusal to acknowledge the severity of the situation, De Miranda was blunt: "Díaz-Canel said Cuba is not on the brink of collapse. No, it is in collapse. Can he name something that works, aside from the capacity to repress dissent?"
In conclusion, the expert urged Díaz-Canel and his government to admit they have failed to implement the changes the nation needs, either due to incompetence or lack of political courage. "When that happens, the best course is to step aside."
Cuban intellectual Alina Bárbara López echoed similar sentiments, describing the interview as "the same lies, although increasingly brazen."
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba's Economic and Political Situation
What were the literacy rates in Cuba before 1959?
According to the 1953 Cuban Census, the literacy rate was 23.6% for individuals aged ten and above, contrary to some claims of it being 40%.
How electrified was Cuba before the Cuban Revolution?
The United Nations' Demographic Yearbook 1958-1959 reported that 82.9% of Cuban homes had electricity in 1959.
Why is the security of private investments in Cuba uncertain?
Economist Mauricio De Miranda warns that the security of private investments in Cuba depends on the 'political will' of the government, which could change unpredictably.
What does De Miranda propose for the Cuban government?
De Miranda suggests that the Cuban government should recognize their inability to implement necessary reforms and consider stepping aside.