While Cuba is experiencing one of the worst economic crises in decades, characterized by shortages, blackouts, inflation, and an unprecedented exodus, the former spy Gerardo Hernández –current National Coordinator of the CDR– has once again showcased the official triumphalism and absurdity on social media.
This Monday, he shared a short music video on Facebook as a tribute to the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution, accompanied by the message: “A Cuban key in love for Cuba, in salute to May Day and heading towards the 65th anniversary of the CDR.”
In the midst of the economic and social collapse affecting the country, the video—where several people play a contagious Cuban rhythm—aims to lift spirits for the celebration of International Workers' Day and the 65th anniversary of the community organization founded by Fidel Castro.
Although Hernández does not appear in the video, his role as the main figure of the CDR turns the gesture into a piece of political propaganda, completely disconnected from the reality of the country.
The contrast between the festive tone of the message and the seriousness of the crisis did not go unnoticed by internet users.
Noel García expressed: “When I see these puppets, I feel ashamed to say that I am Cuban, but I remember that we have José Daniel Ferrer, and it passes.”
Joel Martínez emphasized: "Don't applaud too much or you'll risk hypoglycemia, and then you'll have to rush to get food, preparing it quickly because the current will take it away soon. The CDR, established as a neighborhood watch network, has lost legitimacy and support among large segments of society, especially among young people, who associate them more with social control than with the community solidarity they claim to promote.”
With his publication, Nordelo aims to ignite revolutionary enthusiasm "from the neighborhood," but what seems to have sparked—once again—is indignation.
In recent months, Hernández has intensified his presence on social media, resorting to posts that, far from generating empathy, have been widely criticized for their disconnection from the harsh reality of the country, bordering on the ridiculous.
In March, he shared a video in which he explained how he copes with blackouts alongside his children, in a crude attempt to romanticize this type of situation amid a nationwide wave of power cuts that severely impacts the population.
Just two days later, the former spy praised a Cuban who raises fish in his home as a symbol of "resilience", without mentioning the collapse of the food system that has forced the population to find makeshift solutions for survival.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Crisis in Cuba and Gerardo Hernández's Actions
What is the purpose of the music video shared by Gerardo Hernández?
The music video shared by Gerardo Hernández aims to encourage the celebration of International Workers' Day and the 65th anniversary of the CDR. However, it has been perceived as a piece of political propaganda disconnected from the reality of the severe economic and social crisis that Cuba is experiencing.
How have Cubans reacted to Gerardo Hernández's statements on emigration?
Gerardo Hernández's statements that Cubans emigrate solely for economic reasons and not for lack of freedom have generated outrage. Many Cubans have expressed their disagreement, pointing out that political repression and lack of rights are also fundamental reasons for leaving the island.
What strategy is the Cuban government using to justify the current crisis?
The Cuban government has initiated the "anti-imperialist neighborhood debates" to blame the U.S. embargo for the crisis. These events aim to divert attention from internal problems and reinforce the official narrative, although they have lost influence and participation among the population.
What is the impact of U.S. immigration measures on Cubans according to Gerardo Hernández?
Gerardo Hernández states that U.S. immigration measures have encouraged the irregular emigration of Cubans. Additionally, he criticizes the recent decisions to revoke immigration benefits such as humanitarian parole, labeling them as immoral and harmful to those who were encouraged to emigrate with false expectations.
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