The renowned Cuban actor Luis Alberto García expressed his outrage this Saturday after being denied service at a Havana gas station, despite having received confirmation through the state application El Ticket to purchase fuel.
In a lengthy message posted on social media, García recounted how he diligently went to the gas station located at 112 and 5th Avenue, in the Playa municipality, after receiving two text messages indicating that he could access 40 liters of regular gasoline.
"I was sweating under a relentless sun for more than an hour and a half (...) Drunk with joy. Cursing alongside others who were also cursing 'the COS@', the country and its overseers, the virtual food, the audiovisual and journalistic happiness, the madness, the disaster, the plagues of trash, the disguised beggars, the thunders disguised as resignation for just one person and not for their applauders, the Magna Carta that they turn into magma at their whim, the leaders and complicity of the deputies, the blocks and the two blockades," he commented.
However, after waiting in line, he faced a denial from the facility staff. "Artist… I'm sorry, but we can't provide you with fuel, my friend," they told him at the point of sale, where he showed all his documents: ID card, QR code, app messages, and even his vehicle registration.
The reason for the rejection, as they explained to him, was a change in the registration requirements for El Ticket. What was previously validated with the vehicle registration now had to match the circulation license number. “It’s orders from the galaxy,” an employee shot back at him.
"So, do I have to leave without refueling and wait for my turn again in two weeks?" asked the actor. The answer was yes. Outrage quickly followed.
"Comrade, not at all...!" García reacted. "I felt so dignified, so respected, and so loved in this country that I cherish!"
The actor, known for his critical stance, did not hold back on the irony to denounce the mistreatment of the ordinary citizen, who has to endure endless lines under the sun while "the luminaries that clutter our lives" access privileges, avoid queues, or fuel their vehicles at special and hidden stations.
"I love you, chubby guys. Far from me. From us," he concluded, visibly upset.
Her complaint has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, where many users identified with her frustration over the ongoing obstacles presented by the system in accessing basic resources, such as fuel in Havana and across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fuel Crisis and the Criticism of Luis Alberto García in Cuba
Why was Luis Alberto García rejected at the Havana service station?
Luis Alberto García was denied at the service station due to a change in the registration requirements of the El Ticket application, where now the vehicle's license plate must match the circulation license number. Despite having received confirmation to purchase fuel, the actor was unable to do so due to not meeting this new requirement.
What is the "El Ticket" app and how does it affect fuel purchases in Cuba?
The "El Ticket" app is a digital platform used in Cuba to organize the sale of fuel at service stations. Users must register and wait for the allocation of a ticket to be able to purchase gasoline. This system has been criticized for its complexity and the additional restrictions it imposes, such as limiting purchases to 40 liters and requiring subscription payments to receive notifications.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the new gasoline purchase measure?
The reaction of the Cuban population has been one of discontent and frustration. Many citizens are facing long lines, purchase restrictions, and a payment system they deem unfair, especially in the context of an economic crisis. The measure has drawn criticism for exacerbating difficulties in accessing basic resources amid a shortage of fuel.
What other criticisms has Luis Alberto García made of the Cuban government recently?
Luis Alberto García has criticized the Cuban government on several occasions for various reasons, including the ETECSA rate hike, the lack of equality in access to basic services, and the neglect of cultural spaces like El Sauce. His complaints reflect widespread discontent with government policies on the island.
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