In the midst of the deep energy crisis affecting Cuba, a priest from Santiago captured the feelings of many Cubans with irony and resignation: "We are facing a Christmas without colored lights.”
Leandro NaunHung posted a video on Facebook showcasing a wood-burning stove made from scrap material, an "invention" that many Cubans have had to resort to lately as a means of survival in increasingly challenging conditions.
"Here the only thing to do is survive, let's see if one day we can eat McDonald's," the father said as he prepared the meal.
His comment, laden with irony, reflects not only the harshness of the current circumstances but also the hope of many Cubans to one day achieve a more prosperous life under a different political system.
The priest not only shared his personal experience but also referred to the hardships faced by many households on the island: "Thank God we have food. Do you know how many people are in blackouts, without gas, with nothing to cook and nothing to cook with?" he asked.
The situation reflects the impact of ongoing blackouts, such as the recent third major blackout in less than two months, which severely affects the daily lives of Cubans.
Amid jokes about "grated parmesan" and "New Year’s Eve dinners," the priest's message reveals a devastating reality: daily life in Cuba has turned into a constant struggle for survival.
"Everything is falling apart," the priest remarked as he observed a fence with obvious damage, but in a way, his comment symbolized the last few months in Cuba, where the crisis has intensified.
His message, while infused with humor, portrays a bleak landscape where power outages, fuel shortages, and basic resources have turned celebrations into yet another challenge in the harsh day-to-day life of the island.
Recently, NaunHung, known for his community work in rural areas of Santiago de Cuba, which he highlights through his social media, expressed his dismay upon learning that the Cuban regime is preparing for future blackouts lasting more than 72 hours, a scenario outlined in the recently enacted Decree 110.
“Enough! Lord, put an end to this unnecessary suffering! Bring your arrival closer, at least for the Cubans! Come and take us away!” said the father of the Catholic Church, who shares hardships and precarious solutions with Cubans from rural and disadvantaged areas.
His comments were published on CiberCuba's Facebook page, specifically in the post that reported the Cuban regime's decision to establish a "special electrical contingency regime" that will be declared whenever the national electroenergy system (SEN) is overwhelmed and on the verge of collapse.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and the Situation in Cuba
What is the current situation of the energy crisis in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis, characterized by massive blackouts and shortages of basic resources such as gas and electricity. This situation has forced many Cubans to resort to survival methods, such as cooking with firewood, to cope with the lack of essential services.
How does Decree 110 affect the Cuban population?
Decree 110 allows the Cuban government to plan outages lasting more than 72 hours in the event of an overload on the electrical system. The Cuban population has reacted with outrage, as this measure worsens their quality of life by increasing the frequency and duration of power cuts in an already precarious context.
Who is Leandro NaunHung and what is his role in the community?
Leandro NaunHung is a Catholic priest in Santiago de Cuba who has distinguished himself through his community work. He shares survival recipes and promotes initiatives to support rural communities, focusing on food self-sufficiency and solidarity during times of crisis.
What challenges do the rural communities of Santiago de Cuba face?
The rural communities of Santiago de Cuba face a series of challenges, including shortages of food and medicine, prolonged power outages, and a lack of basic resources. These difficulties are compounded by the inaction of the Cuban government and measures such as Decree 110.
Filed under:
