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El régimen cubano ha salido in defense of the first secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago de Cuba, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, por ser objeto de críticas por parte del reportero Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, quien ha señalado el activo papel de la funcionaria en actos de represión contra el pueblo.
A post from the officialist profile "Un simple Santiaguero" referred to the memes and posts about Mayeta as "symbolic violence" and "harassment"; however, it argued that the official "is not obliged to be beautiful, quiet, or perfect", implicitly suggesting that she is not, and thereby committing, with that sexist vocabulary, an act of symbolic violence that she presumably seeks to denounce.
"A woman in public space is not obligated to be beautiful, quiet, or perfect. She has the right to make mistakes, to make decisions, to lead, and also to be criticized," the text stated.
On the other hand, accounts from the pro-government press in Santiago praised Beatriz Johnson’s role in her position, where she is allegedly "fighting for the improvement of a community that follows her and acknowledges her efforts in such difficult circumstances." At the same time, they urged denouncing the criticisms made against her.
Contradictorily, those same profiles that request not to mock the oppressive regime have launched attacks against reporter Mayeta, making references to his physical characteristics and resorting to disparaging comments.
In response to the publication against him, Mayeta recalled that Johnson herself has offended him during her PCC meetings, disdainfully calling him "paj....áro" and "Mari....... dolido": "They will have to review themselves, because I am always a point of discussion in their meetings," he added.
The young man argued that every one of his posts is followed by another from officialist profiles to "cover up the gap" and refute what Mayeta presents.
However, she makes her criticisms publicly and without hiding, "to denounce a problem and the ideals that I believe are just."
Dozens of internet users questioned the hypocrisy in the profiles defending Urrutia and pointed out that programs like "Con filo" and the National News were disrespectful to Cuban activists and opponents.
"Where does this same drive to demand respect go when it is the Cuban Warrior who mocks the sexual orientation of some critics of socialism and speaks about their health statuses, whether they are HIV positive, and whether they went to nightclub X or Y, which in many cases would be considered illegal disclosure of private information and in other cases defamation (claims without evidence). Ah, in that case, there is no criticism, nothing is said. It’s called double standards, we criticize opponents for doing X thing, but when someone from our side does it against them, then either we applaud it or we remain silent," argued an internet user.
Beatriz Johnson Urrutia has faced criticism for her lack of concrete action and her tendency to avoid direct contact with citizens when it comes to complaints about the supply of water, electricity, and food.
The official has responded to peaceful citizen protests with repression and police deployments to control social discontent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beatriz Johnson Urrutia and the regime in Santiago de Cuba
Why is Beatriz Johnson Urrutia criticized in Santiago de Cuba?
Beatriz Johnson Urrutia has been criticized for her lack of concrete action regarding community issues and her tendency to avoid direct contact with citizens. Furthermore, she has responded to peaceful protests with repression and police deployments, which has led to significant social discontent.
How has the Cuban regime reacted to the criticisms directed at Beatriz Johnson Urrutia?
The Cuban regime has come out in "defense" of Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, labeling the criticisms as "symbolic violence" and "harassment." However, this defense has been contradictory, as while they demand respect for her, they attack critics such as reporter Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, using derogatory remarks about him.
What role has Yosmany Mayeta Labrada played in the situation of Santiago de Cuba?
Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, an independent communicator, has been a critical voice against the government in Santiago de Cuba, highlighting local issues and the inaction of its leaders. His work has even been recognized by opponents such as José Daniel Ferrer, who has praised his informative impact.
What contradictions can be observed in the regime's defense of Beatriz Johnson Urrutia?
The contradictions in the regime's defense of Beatriz Johnson Urrutia are evident when, while asking for respect for her, they use the same derogatory and mocking language that they criticize in their opponents. Furthermore, the defense fails to address the legitimate criticisms regarding her management and response to citizen protests.
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