Cuba's Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, attended the March of the Combatant People on crutches this December 20 in Havana, alongside Raúl Castro and Miguel Díaz-Canel, amidst a rising wave of discontent among the population.
Marrero arrived at the event on crutches after sustaining an injury during his travels through Eastern Cuba, according to the regime. In recent weeks, the official has also been seen several times with a cast on one arm.
Under pressure from public discontent, Raúl Castro and Miguel Díaz-Canel also attended the gathering.
The march, called by the Cuban government to reject the United States' policy of blockade and Cuba's inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, took place amidst a profound economic and social crisis on the island. Food shortages, frequent blackouts, and rampant inflation have created a widespread climate of criticism, which has been reflected on social media.
One of the most discussed topics in recent weeks has been the viral song "Que vaya Sandro," which critiques the mobilization and ostentation of the ruling elite.
The song, which has become a phenomenon on digital platforms, references Sandro Castro, the grandson of Fidel Castro, known for his luxurious lifestyle amid the economic crisis facing the country. The lyrics express the discontent of Cubans, alluding to the disconnect between the rulers and the reality of the population.
"If you ask me, let Sandro go," he repeats the refrain, pointing to the children of the rulers as the true culprits of the turmoil, instead of the ordinary citizens who bear the brunt of the regime's policies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Combatant March and Discontent in Cuba
Why did Manuel Marrero Cruz attend the march in Havana on crutches?
Manuel Marrero Cruz, the Prime Minister of Cuba, attended the march using crutches due to a recent injury sustained during his travels in Eastern Cuba. In recent weeks, he has also been seen with a cast on one arm, which has sparked comments about his health.
What was the purpose of the March of the Combatant People in Cuba?
The official purpose of the March of the Fighting People was to protest against the economic blockade by the United States and Cuba's inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism. However, many criticize it as a propaganda act amidst a severe economic and social crisis on the island.
What is the song "Que vaya Sandro" and why has it become so popular in Cuba?
The song "Que vaya Sandro" is a satirical piece that critiques the privileges of the Cuban ruling elite, symbolized by Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro. It has gone viral on social media, capturing the public's discontent regarding the disconnect between the rulers and the harsh reality faced by the Cuban people.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the marches organized by the government?
The Cuban population has reacted with discontent and rejection towards the marches organized by the government, viewing them as propaganda acts that do not address the country’s real needs. Frustration is evident in the use of hashtags like #YoNoMarcho on social media, where people criticize the government's disconnect from the needs of the population.
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