A resident of Matanzas, Cuba, secured a court ruling in his favor against the Municipal Directorate of Commerce. Yet, almost three years after a state-run entity damaged his home, the roof remains unrepaired, and the fear of a collapse looms large.
The situation was highlighted on Facebook by journalist Yuni Moliner (Yunielis Moliner Isasi), who, despite working for official media, has gained a following on social media for drawing attention to local issues the Cuban radio and TV often neglect.
Long-Standing Struggle for Justice
Ignacio García Suárez lives at 290 Street, number 7114, between 71 and 73, in Matanzas. His ordeal began in November 2023 when the state-owned butcher shop "El Lazo de Oro," adjacent to his house, started roof replacement works.
These construction activities led to cracks and holes in the shared wall, damage to the wooden beams in the ceiling, and signs of moisture and leaks in Ignacio's living and dining rooms. Seeking justice, Ignacio pursued legal advice and took his case to the Matanzas Municipal People's Court, which conducted a judicial inspection with expert assistance.
Legal Victory, Yet No Action
"The verdict favored Ignacio," reported Moliner. The ruling confirmed the damage to his home was caused by the construction at the butcher shop and ordered the Municipal Directorate of Commerce in Matanzas to repair the damages.
Although the court's decision, issued in 2025, mandated repairs to the damaged roof, the judgment did not translate into action. Months passed without compliance. In February 2026, a new 30-day deadline was set for the repairs, yet it also expired without any progress. The family then pursued a criminal avenue, but fear of a potential collapse continues to haunt them.
"Once the roof collapses and kills someone, there's no turning back," Ignacio summarized, encapsulating the anxiety he has lived with for nearly three years.
Systemic Neglect in Matanzas
In February 2022, a similar case emerged involving another Matanzas resident. The woman had been waiting 14 years for the State to fix damages caused by the Acopio Enterprise, which had breached her home's wall and redirected an agricultural market's drainage into her property.
In July 2026, a partial collapse of a building in the historical center of Matanzas, a National Monument area, occurred. Here, around 100 buildings are severely deteriorated, with 12% facing irreversible destruction risk. Weeks later, reports indicated three hazardous walls remained standing, posing unaddressed dangers.
Frequently Asked Questions on Legal and Repair Challenges in Matanzas
What was the outcome of Ignacio García Suárez's legal case?
Ignacio García Suárez won a court ruling that mandated the Municipal Directorate of Commerce in Matanzas to repair the damages to his home caused by construction at a neighboring state-owned butcher shop.
Why hasn't the roof been repaired despite the court ruling?
Despite the court's order, the mandated repairs have not been executed, leaving Ignacio and his family in a state of uncertainty and fear over a potential roof collapse.
Are there other similar cases in Matanzas?
Yes, another case involves a woman who has been waiting 14 years for the State to address damages from a different state-run entity, highlighting systemic neglect in the area.
What risks do buildings in Matanzas' historical center face?
Approximately 100 buildings in Matanzas' historical center are in severe disrepair, with 12% at risk of irreversible destruction, as evidenced by recent collapses and remaining hazardous structures.