La Ronera Occidental has set the goal of producing one bottle of refined rum for each of the more than 700,000 families in Havana before the New Year's celebrations, an ambitious objective that it aims to achieve despite recent incidents of corruption identified within the organization.
"A company verification indicates that there are no discrepancies so far," stated a report from the government-affiliated Canal Caribe.
However, the same television report noted that as part of the national exercise for prevention and combat against crime being conducted in the country, 168 boxes of Legendario rum were seized in a house in San Miguel del Padrón.
"In addition to being under police investigation, those involved received severe administrative penalties, including dismissals from the institution," noted the state-run channel.
However, as part of the regime's narrative, which tends to be more optimistic as the year draws to a close, the report emphasized the “goal” of producing rum for every household.
This objective seeks to provide "relief" to families in the Cuban capital and alleviate the sadness surrounding the upcoming New Year celebrations, which are marked by high prices, widespread shortages, and an energy crisis that has led to three massive blackouts in just two months.
However, this is not the first time the regime has used this “balm” tactic for the month of December.
In 2022, the government of Holguín distributed a bottle of rum to each household for the end of the year, according to official sources.
Martín Pupo, director of the UEB of Beverages and Refreshments “Pedro Díaz Coello,” announced on his Facebook wall that sales are conducted through the trade network for the various municipalities.
That same year, the sale of rum in oil containers to residents of Havana caused outrage among many citizens who view it as yet another sign of the regime's blatant decline and crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rum Distribution Plan in Havana and Corruption in Cuba
What is the Cuban government aiming to achieve by distributing a bottle of rum to each family in Havana?
The Cuban government seeks to provide "relief" to families in Havana during the New Year's celebrations amidst an economic crisis characterized by high prices and widespread shortages. This measure is similar to initiatives from previous years where the distribution of rum was used as a strategy to mitigate social discontent.
How does corruption in Ronera Occidental affect rum production?
Corruption in Ronera Occidental has led to the diversion of resources, as evidenced by the case of 168 cases of Legendario rum meant for the black market. This jeopardizes the production goal of rum for each family, as corrupt practices can impact the fair availability and distribution of the product.
What actions is the Cuban government taking to combat corruption in rum production?
The Cuban government has implemented surprise inspections and stricter control measures at the Ronera Occidental to prevent future resource diversions. However, the effectiveness of these measures is being questioned, given the regime's discredit and the ongoing emergence of corruption cases in the country.
Why does the Cuban regime use plastic bottles to sell rum to the population?
The Cuban government uses plastic bottles, similar to those for oil, for the "cheap rum" sold to the population, while reserving glass bottles for the quality rum intended for export. This practice has sparked outrage among citizens, who view it as a reflection of the regime's decline and crisis.
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