The conditions of the Guantánamo cemetery have sparked outrage on social media following the release of a video showing open graves, uncontrolled weeds, and a strong foul odor.
In the recording, shared by the TikTok user @cubaactual, the deterioration of the cemetery is evident, and the statements of the whistleblower can be heard, who describes the poor condition of the site and the unbearable stench that affects nearby residents.
"These are the conditions in which the cemetery of Guantánamo is found—open graves, look at this... There was an extremely foul smell, and I could hardly film; I had to keep covering my nose," he recounts while walking through the cemetery.
The complaint also highlights the presence of weeds and even a banana plant growing among the graves. "What I can't understand is how the people living close to the wall can tolerate that strong smell," he adds.
Indignation on social media was immediate. Many users have expressed their dismay. "They don't even respect eternal rest," commented one; "Cuba is dying, a country that used to be so beautiful," added another. Another user pointed out, "All the cemeteries in Cuba are in terrible condition; if there's nothing for the living, what will be left for the dead?" and one person held others accountable: "That place has an administration. In the end, they're not concerned about the living in the hospitals; are they going to ask the dead?"
"If the houses of the living are falling apart over their heads, what can be expected of the house of the dead?" another stated.
The deterioration of cemeteries in Cuba is not exclusive to Guantánamo. In other provinces, complaints are frequent. In Havana, the Colon Cemetery, one of the most emblematic in the country, has recorded cases of vandalized graves, trees fallen onto tombstones, and exposed human remains. In Las Tunas, residents have discovered skulls and human bones in public spaces, while in Holguín a fallen tree had remained for more than a month unremoved from several graves.
In 2023, it was also reported that at the San Rafael Cemetery in Guantánamo, some vaults remained open for days due to a "guideline" that prevented them from being sealed until they contained at least 12 bodies.
The neglect of cemeteries in Cuba not only highlights the lack of maintenance but also the institutional apathy and the indifference of the authorities towards the respect owed to the deceased and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions about the State of Cemeteries in Cuba
What is the current situation of the Guantánamo cemetery?
The cemetery of Guantánamo is in terrible condition, with open graves, uncontrolled weeds, and a strong smell of decomposition. This situation has sparked outrage among residents and on social media due to the evident neglect and institutional apathy.
What reactions has the video about the Guantánamo cemetery generated on social media?
The video has sparked outrage and dismay among social media users, who have expressed their frustration over the disrespect shown towards the deceased and the widespread deterioration of cemeteries in Cuba.
Is the deterioration of cemeteries an issue exclusive to Guantánamo?
No, the deterioration of cemeteries is a widespread problem in Cuba. Similar situations have been reported in other provinces such as Havana, Las Tunas, and Holguín, where the cemeteries exhibit neglect, vandalism, and lack of maintenance.
What responsibility does the Cuban government have regarding the state of the cemeteries?
The Cuban government has a direct responsibility for the neglect of cemeteries due to its inability to provide the necessary resources and to implement effective maintenance and security measures.
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