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Amid the controversy between the Havana regime and Cuban-American activist Carlos Lazo, the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) affirmed that "it has never refused the delivery of donations directly to its institutions."
Lazo, an ally of the regime and leader of the Puentes de Amor movement, had denounced last week that "Cuban authorities impose restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and powdered milk to pediatric hospitals on the island" and that they were hindering the humanitarian work that his organization has been doing for years for the benefit of the Cuban population.
An official statement assures that "the Ministry of Public Health has never refused to accept donations directly at its institutions" and that "those who wish to do so need only to communicate in advance, which aims to ensure an orderly delivery that does not interfere with the healthcare and administrative processes of the health units."
The text cites several examples of direct deliveries and mentions that "With each donation received, even when not delivered in person, the authorities of each health institution send donors photographic evidence of the receipt of resources, as well as notes and messages of gratitude on behalf of the sector professionals and the patients receiving the assistance."
After the publication of that official news brief Lazo responded with a message on Facebook in which he declared the controversy closed and advocated for unity, warning that "tough times are ahead."
In a post on Facebook where he shares a personal anecdote about "disagreements among neighbors", the activist stated that "we have been pulling each other's hair out for several days, both sides. Good people, united in the neighborhood and in the family, asking for each other's heads"; and concluded that "the truth is that the neighborhood needs to prepare because tough times are coming."
"The neighbors will have to embrace each other because what is coming from the north is a huge storm. And if we don't face it very tightly and together, we will be overwhelmed," he emphasized in his message.
The evolution of Lazo as a public figure is complex. In 2022, his open support for lifting the embargo, his visits to Cuba, and his meetings with the Cuban government earned him strong criticism from the exile community in Miami.
The Cuban community in Florida even organized a campaign on Change.org that gathered over 10,000 signatures to declare him "persona non grata," accusing him of being a supporter of the regime.
Frequently Asked Questions about the controversy between Carlos Lazo and the MINSAP
What has the MINSAP declared about the delivery of donations to hospitals in Cuba?
The MINSAP has assured that "it has never refused the delivery of donations directly to its institutions" and that those wishing to make donations only need to notify them in advance to ensure an orderly delivery that does not interfere with the care and administrative processes of the healthcare units.
What is Carlos Lazo's stance regarding the restrictions imposed by the Cuban government?
Carlos Lazo has reported that the Cuban authorities impose restrictions on the direct delivery of medical supplies and powdered milk to pediatric hospitals on the island. He claims that this hinders the humanitarian work that his organization has been doing for years to benefit the Cuban population.
What changes has Carlos Lazo experienced in his relationship with the Cuban regime?
Carlos Lazo, previously seen as an ally of the Cuban regime, has undergone a shift in his rhetoric by criticizing the internal restrictions of the Cuban government. While he continues to advocate for the lifting of the U.S. embargo, he now also highlights the obstacles imposed by Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime.
How has the Cuban community in Florida reacted to Carlos Lazo's actions?
The Cuban community in Florida has been critical of Carlos Lazo, even organizing a campaign on Change.org that gathered over 10,000 signatures to declare him "persona non grata". They accuse him of being a supporter of the Cuban regime due to his advocacy for lifting the embargo and his relationship with the government of Havana.
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