While blackouts, water shortages, and precarious conditions increasingly affect families in Cuba, senior leaders of the regime enjoy comfortable zones without worries.
This was reported on social media by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, who shared images showing Beatriz Johnson, the first secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago de Cuba, and the president of the National Assembly, Esteban Lazo, enjoying a day of recreation, apparently in a rest house linked to the PCC or in a tourist facility closed to the public.
In one of the images, Johnson is seen bathing in a pool alongside people who appear to be his family, while in another they share beers in an environment that is far removed from the reality experienced by the people.
In another photo, both leaders are seen surrounded by a large group of people, in what appears to be a private event in a clearly comfortable setting, in contrast to the deplorable condition of the facilities supposedly accessible to the public.
“While the people are the ones who must sacrifice, the Johnsons, their relatives, and Esteban Lazo enjoy it from the nice hotels,” wrote Labrada, adding sarcasm to his complaint: “Do you think I don’t have cameras? I have it all!” he concluded.
The publication comes amid a critical national situation, where power outages exceed 10 hours a day in many provinces, there is a collapse in hospitals, a shortage of basic food items, and a growing sense of despair among citizens.
The images quickly went viral, sparking outrage on social media, where users reminded everyone of the double standards in the official narrative, which constantly urges the people to resist, "make sacrifices," and "rally around the Revolution."
The facility where they are seen has not been officially identified, but according to comments on social media, it could be a retirement home for the Party or a tourist facility reserved for officials.
For many Cubans, the images are confirmation of what has always been known: while the leaders distribute slogans, they enjoy privileges that are inaccessible to the people who support them.
Several recent episodes involving figures of power in Cuba have highlighted the gap between the official discourse and the reality of the leaders' lives.
One of them involves Lis Cuesta, the wife of Miguel Díaz-Canel, whose medical condition, photophobia, has served as a justification for the use of high-cost special sunglasses, a luxury that is completely out of reach for most Cubans, who are facing a severe shortage of basic medical products.
In another case that sparked criticism, it was revealed that a high-ranking communist official received a scholarship to study in Brazil, which was seen as a display of selective privilege.
While the people bear the consequences of the educational and migratory collapse, the cadres and leaders access international opportunities denied to the majority.
Outrage intensified even further with the emergence of images of Miguel Díaz-Canel showcasing luxury watches and silk ties, items that he himself framed as part of an alleged "creative resistance."
In a context marked by extended blackouts, inflation, and extreme shortages, these displays of ostentation by the ruling party were seen as a direct affront to the Cuban people.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Scandal of Cuban Leaders' Vacations during the Energy Crisis
Who are the leaders caught on vacation while Cuba suffers from blackouts?
The involved leaders are Beatriz Johnson, First Secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago de Cuba, and Esteban Lazo, President of the National Assembly. They were seen enjoying a recreational day at a facility linked to the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), while the Cuban people face serious energy issues.
How has the Cuban population reacted to images of leaders on vacation?
The Cuban population has reacted with indignation to images of the leaders enjoying vacations. Many citizens have expressed their frustration and anger, recalling the double standard of the official discourse that calls on the people to make sacrifices while the leaders enjoy privileges that are out of reach for the average citizen.
What justification has been provided for the critical energy situation in Santiago de Cuba?
Beatriz Johnson explained that the critical energy situation in Santiago de Cuba is due to the tense state of the National Electro-Energy System (SEN). According to her, hospitals are prioritized, and between three and four hours of electricity are guaranteed in residential circuits, asking the people for empathy and solidarity.
What has been the regime's response to the criticism of Beatriz Johnson?
The regime has defended Beatriz Johnson, stating that she is not required to be perfect and has the right to be criticized. However, the hypocrisy in this defense has also been pointed out, as the state-run media has launched attacks against those who criticize government officials.
How is the Cuban government's management perceived in response to the energy crisis?
The Cuban government's management of the energy crisis is perceived as ineffective and disconnected from the reality of the population. The constant broken promises and lack of solutions have generated growing discontent and frustration among citizens, who feel that their needs are not being adequately addressed.
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