Amid the severe energy crisis facing Cuba, the government has decided to revive the Caravan of Freedom, a symbolic event that commemorates the historic journey of the Rebel Army in 1959.
Sixty-six years after that triumphant march, the Cuban administration has organized a new event that, according to TV Santiago, will cover "more than 1,000 kilometers."
On January 2, 2025, Cuban authorities celebrated the launch of the caravan during an event in Santiago de Cuba, presided over by José Ramón Monteagudo, Beatriz Johnson, and Manuel Falcón, officials of the Communist Party.
Official publications on social media claimed that the initiative was essential "as a perpetual expression of this province's commitment and loyalty to its history," without mentioning the protests in Santiago against the ongoing blackouts that the population is facing due to a lack of fuel.
This initiative, rather than serving as a reminder of the so-called "revolutionary struggle," has sparked discomfort and criticism among those facing serious difficulties due to fuel shortages.
In recent weeks, the country has also witnessed endless lines of vehicles at gas stations, where drivers must wait up to 24 hours to refuel. In some areas of Havana, the queues have stretched for two or three days, leaving thousands of Cubans without access to gasoline.
This lack of basic resources, combined with high prices in the black market, has led to widespread discontent, especially among those who rely on their vehicles for work, such as taxi drivers and those transporting patients.
The government, instead of directly addressing the issues affecting the population, seems more focused on organizing events that, while symbolic, do not resolve the serious situation the country is facing.
The regime also prioritized political propaganda in December when it called for a march along the Havana waterfront, which Cubans were reportedly forced to attend, according to social media reports.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Caravan of Freedom and the Fuel Crisis in Cuba
What is the Caravana de la Libertad and why is it being organized amid a fuel crisis?
The Caravan of Freedom is a symbolic event that commemorates the journey of the Rebel Army in 1959. It is organized as a way to reaffirm revolutionary ideals. However, in the current context of fuel shortages in Cuba, this type of event has faced criticism from citizens, who believe the government should prioritize addressing urgent issues rather than holding propaganda events.
How does the fuel crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The fuel crisis in Cuba is severely impacting the daily lives of citizens. Long lines at gas stations, which can last for several days, make transportation and access to essential services challenging. Furthermore, the scarcity of fuel has driven up prices in the black market, further complicating the already difficult economic situation for the Cuban population.
What has been the reaction of Cubans to the organization of the Caravan of Freedom?
The reaction of the Cuban people has been one of discontent and indignation. Many believe that organizing the Caravana de la Libertad amid such a severe crisis demonstrates the government's disconnect from the real needs of the population. People criticize the allocation of resources to symbolic events while they are facing serious challenges in meeting basic needs, such as access to fuel.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the fuel crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented measures such as the arrival of tanker ships to resume fuel distribution. However, these measures have been partial and have not effectively resolved the shortage. The population continues to face long lines and high prices in the black market, reflecting the lack of concrete short-term solutions.
Filed under: