Cuban content creator Kenny Robert did not stay silent about ETECSA's new exorbitant prices, which are undoubtedly the hot topic among Cubans on social media.
From her popular character Jessica, she delivered a wave of critiques, filled with humor but containing many truths, which made many people laugh.
With her characteristic dramatic and outspoken style, Jessica addressed ETECSA on Instagram as if she were speaking to a treacherous friend: “ETECSA, what the hell is wrong with you? How long is this going to last, what do you think, where is one supposed to get money here?”, she shouted in one of the many audio messages she sent.
And it didn’t stop there. Jessica dropped more than one gem in her monologue: “Hey, the only entertainment I had, the only ray of sunshine was social media, now how am I going to pay for this?”
But the height of it all came when he spoke bluntly: “You are forcing people to do the bo* for 10 pesos. At any moment, one won’t even be able to breathe.”
Jessica proposed a solution that many have likely thought of but not voiced: “What we need to do is go outside of ETECSA with a bunch of torches and set it on fire.”
And as if all this were not enough, he dropped another phrase that captures the situation with surgical precision: “Whose brilliant idea was this? (...) That data package costs more than a doctor's salary”.
“I’ve already had your back”, stated Kenny while sharing the video with his followers on Instagram.
Jessica's complaints are far from exaggerated. They come just after the announcement by ETECSA regarding its new measures and especially the "extra packages" of mobile data, which have sparked outrage throughout Cuba.
The monthly limit of 360 pesos on data packages has caused significant dissatisfaction among Cubans who consume more than 6GB of mobile data in that timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions about ETECSA's New Measures and the Reaction of Cubans
Why have ETECSA's new measures caused such discomfort?
The new measures by ETECSA have caused discomfort because they severely limit access to the Internet in national currency (CUP), forcing many to pay in dollars in order to access mobile data packages. This is seen as a massive exclusion, as many Cubans do not have access to foreign currency. Furthermore, the prices for additional plans in CUP are unaffordable compared to the average salary in Cuba.
What are the new rates from ETECSA for mobile data plans?
ETECSA has established new data plans in dollars: 4 GB for 10 USD, 8 GB + 75 MIN + 80 SMS for 20 USD, and 16 GB for 35 USD. For the additional plans in CUP, the prices are 3 GB for 3,360 CUP, 7 GB for 6,720 CUP, and 15 GB for 11,760 CUP. These prices greatly exceed the minimum wage in Cuba, making them difficult to access for most Cubans.
What has been the reaction of the public and public figures to ETECSA's measures?
The reaction has been one of indignation and widespread criticism. Public figures such as content creator Kenny Robert, comedian Ulises Toirac, and musician Abel Gerones have expressed their discontent, describing ETECSA's measures as an "armed robbery." These comments reflect a sense of frustration toward a system they view as unjust and exclusionary.
Why has ETECSA decided to implement these measures of dollarization?
ETECSA justifies the new measures with the need to "enhance new sources of income" to sustain, develop, and grow telecommunications services in Cuba. However, many citizens view this explanation as a mockery, given the history of service deficiencies and high prices that do not align with the quality provided.
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