In a message released this Monday through the official site of the Presidency and Government of Cuba, the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez called on Cubans to march on the upcoming First of May in defense of the “achievements” of socialism, despite the severe economic crisis affecting the island.
The text, titled Message to the Workers and the People of Cuba, highlights the “pride” of having maintained the celebrations of the International Workers' Day, even “amidst the harshest shortages.”
Díaz-Canel assures that the Caribbean nation continues to “resist and create”, despite the onslaught of the “imperial power” that, according to him, seeks to erase Cuba from the political map.
During his address, the leader acknowledged the difficulties facing the country, but insisted on placing the blame for the deterioration of life on the island primarily on the United States embargo, without referencing internal policies and management errors that have exacerbated the crisis.
"Let us once again demonstrate that we are alive and standing not because the greatest enemy of the Cuban people willed it. We are alive, standing, resisting, and creating, by the will of Cubans," affirmed Díaz-Canel, calling for people to fill the plazas despite power outages, shortages of food, medicine, and transportation, and the increasing migratory exodus.
The ruler appealed to Fidel Castro's legacy, recalling his call to act with a “sense of the historical moment” and to “change everything that needs to be changed,” in a context where social frustration and criticism of the regime have increased significantly.
The call comes at a time when the country is going through one of its worst crises in decades, with agricultural production plummeting, a chronic shortage of basic goods, prolonged power outages, and a Cuban peso in free fall against the dollar in the informal market.
Despite this, Díaz-Canel reiterated the need to "celebrate resistance" and to march "for that better world that Cuba wants and deserves."
The message concludes with a call for unity, independence, and the fight against the blockade and the "returning fascism," in a speech aimed at revitalizing popular support amidst a context of growing social discontent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Díaz-Canel's Speech and the Situation in Cuba
What does Díaz-Canel propose to address the economic crisis in Cuba?
Díaz-Canel proposes "creatively resisting" as a strategy to face the economic crisis in Cuba. This resistance is based on rebellion, strength, and innovation, although many critics argue that it lacks practical and effective measures to resolve the country's structural problems.
What is Díaz-Canel's justification for the current crisis in Cuba?
Díaz-Canel primarily blames the economic blockade by the United States for the crisis in Cuba. According to him, this blockade is the main cause of the economic and energy difficulties affecting the country. However, many critics point to poor management and the lack of internal reforms as key factors in the crisis.
How has the Cuban population reacted to Díaz-Canel's statements?
The Cuban population has shown increasing discontent and skepticism towards Díaz-Canel's statements. Many citizens feel that the government's discourse is disconnected from reality and that the promises for improvement lack a clear action plan. Frustration has manifested in protests and criticism on social media.
What is the Cuban government's stance on the May Day marches?
The Cuban government insists on holding the May Day marches as a demonstration of popular support for the regime. Despite the economic and energy crisis, the government allocates resources to these mobilizations, which are often seen as a political obligation for citizens rather than a spontaneous celebration.
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