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The leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and his wife, Lis Cuesta, were seen this Friday on the steps of the University of Havana, just minutes before the start of the concert by the troubadour Silvio Rodríguez, who dedicated his performance to the students protesting against the fees imposed by ETECSA.
The presence of the leader and his wife was reported by photographer Claudio Peláez Sordo, who shared images on his social media of the moment they were waiting for the musician's arrival, surrounded by a strong security detail and several figures from the cultural establishment.
The concert, announced days earlier by Rodríguez, was conceived as a tribute to the youth who, last June, led peaceful protests against ETECSA's price hike, demanding a fairer and more inclusive connectivity policy.
I've seen very positive attitudes from university youth... that's why we are inviting them, explained the troubadour in a video posted on his official Instagram account @zurron_del_aprendiz, where he highlighted the social commitment and fighting spirit of the students.
Silvio's gesture arrives in a tense context, marked by unprecedented mobilizations of university students who publicly questioned the state telecommunications company and the role of the official youth organizations, accused of inaction.
In those days, Rodríguez surprised everyone with critical statements about the regime, published on his blog Segunda Cita, where he wrote: “No one believes in that anymore,” referring to the vertical methods of governance. He also supported the statements from the FEU de la CUJAE and called for greater dialogue and well-being for the Cuban people.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Silvio Rodríguez Concert and the Presence of Díaz-Canel
Why did Silvio Rodríguez dedicate his concert to the students who protested against ETECSA?
Silvio Rodríguez dedicated his concert to students to honor their fighting spirit and social commitment, following protests against ETECSA's unfair rates. He believes that young people represent hope in the struggle for a fairer and more inclusive connectivity policy in Cuba.
How was Díaz-Canel's presence at the concert received?
Díaz-Canel's presence at the concert was met with suspicion and criticism, as many see it as a contradiction, given that the event was dedicated to young people who protested against policies that the government upholds. His administration has faced criticism for repression and the growing inequality in Cuba.
What symbolism did Silvio Rodríguez's concert on the steps of the University of Havana hold?
The concert on the steps of the University of Havana held significant symbolism by evoking historical figures such as Julio Antonio Mella and José Antonio Echeverría, transforming into a space for reflection on the current Cuban reality, characterized by the economic crisis, repression, and the massive emigration of young people.
What position has Silvio Rodríguez taken regarding the Cuban regime and the student protests?
Silvio Rodríguez has taken a critical stance towards the Cuban regime, especially regarding the management of the ETECSA crisis. He has openly supported student protests and has called for more dialogue and well-being for the Cuban people, questioning the government's unilateral methods.
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