The Cuban singer-songwriter Silvio Rodríguez lashed out at the regime's management in light of the crisis caused by the restrictions imposed by ETECSA on internet access, stating that “no one believes in that anymore,” referring to the historical methods that still prevail in decision-making in the country.
"For me, what has happened, and continues to happen, is an increasingly painful testimony that we are going through different times; times that shake us and increasingly tell us loud and clear about the need to prioritize the well-being of the people," wrote the trova musician on June 3rd in his blog Segunda Cita, within a post titled "Cuba Linda".
Rodríguez, a public figure with a long history of supporting the Cuban regime, added: “We are burdened by methods copied from other historical moments, from different realities. No one believes in that anymore. Even Fidel said it: that our model was no longer useful to us.”
The musician insisted that, even amidst the economic catastrophe that Cuba is experiencing, the country has capable scientists and specialists who can provide solutions, and he urged the authorities to listen, engage in dialogue, and discuss more openly.
Support for the university protest
Silvio Rodríguez has also been active on social media regarding the demands of the students from the University of Havana, seeking to change the new ETECSA rates that prioritize offers in foreign currencies, limiting internet access for more than half of Cubans.
The troubadour shared the official statement from the FEU and UJC of CUJAE and accompanied it with a message: "This is the FEU of Julio Antonio Mella, of Raúl Roa, of José Antonio Echeverría, of Fidel Castro, of Alfredo Guevara."
Faculties from across the island have joined the indefinite academic strike. The Communist Party of Cuba and the government have responded with their usual strategy of delegitimizing the protest. The Secretary of Organization of the PCC, Roberto Morales Ojeda, denounced it as a “destabilizing maneuver” promoted by “enemies of the system.”
Generational and ideological division
The conflict has revealed a clear generational and ideological fracture within Cuban universities. While the official discourse focuses on external accusations and institutional control, students are demanding dialogue, social justice, and real participation.
The national leadership of the FEU and the UJC have intensified their rhetoric against students who are protesting against ETECSA, which has caused backlash among the youth and led them to demand the resignation of the president of the FEU.
ETECSA announced temporary measures such as a package of 6 GB for 360 CUP and free access to educational sites, but university students find these solutions insufficient and demand equitable access to the internet for the entire population.
The university strike continues to rise. This is probably the most significant student protest in Cuba in decades. It challenges the institutional structures and the regime's narrative on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ETECSA Crisis and Student Protests in Cuba
Why does Silvio Rodríguez criticize the Cuban regime's management regarding the ETECSA crisis?
Silvio Rodríguez criticizes the management of the Cuban regime because he believes that the historical methods of the government are no longer credible or effective. He also emphasized that even Fidel Castro acknowledged that the current model does not serve the Cubans. Rodríguez urges the authorities to listen to scientists and specialists to find real solutions.
What is the reason for the university protests in Cuba?
The university protests in Cuba arise from the restrictions imposed by ETECSA, which limit access to the internet in national currency, favoring offers in foreign currency. Students demand equitable access to the internet for the entire population, not just for university students, and have called for academic strikes in protest.
How has the Cuban government responded to the student protests?
The Cuban government has responded to the student protests by delegitimizing the movement and accusing "enemies of the system" of promoting destabilization. Furthermore, it has called for solidarity and unity, attempting to discredit the demonstrations as external manipulations.
What proposals have students made to address the ETECSA crisis?
The students have proposed to review the charging scheme, implement night bonuses, and create segmented plans based on usage, as well as promote a transparent dialogue with ETECSA and other sectors. They also demand that the benefits of connectivity be extended to other vulnerable groups, not just university students.
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