In a lengthy speech that alternated between epic, historical, and defensive tones, Miguel Díaz-Canel admitted this Saturday that the institutional communication of the Cuban government remains a "pending subject", amid a deep economic, social, and energy crisis that has severely deteriorated the quality of life for most Cubans.
During the closure of the X Plenary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), the leader acknowledged that the way information is presented, arguments are made, and attempts are made to persuade from state institutions fails to resonate with the public, particularly the youth.
However, the self-criticism was accompanied by the usual rhetoric about the blockade, the media war, and the "heroic resistance" as an almost absolute justification for all evils.
"Here, the much-debated role of political, institutional, and social communication plays a decisive part, a pending issue that requires more quality, articulation, impact, clarity, coherence, and more appealing methods," he stated, without specifying any responsible parties or pointing out the state structures that have ignored citizens' demands for transparency, effectiveness, and real dialogue for years.
Díaz-Canel urged for a closer connection with the youth, but he approached it from a perspective laden with slogans, appealing to history as a pedagogical tool. He proposed, for example, that schools write Marti's quotes on chalkboards and read Marti's articles as an antidote to demobilization.
The uncomfortable question is: Does the government believe that with phrases from Martí or Fidel's legacy, it can rebuild the lost trust in a generation growing up amid blackouts, shortages, censorship, and a lack of prospects? Is that youth really being heard when they protest, when they emigrate, when they question?
One of the most striking passages of the speech was the statement that "Cuba is a country at war", not only due to the economic embargo but also because of what he referred to as "bombs of disinformation" launched from foreign media and social networks.
The leader also acknowledged that "problems and unacceptable behaviors" have accumulated and that many policies are implemented with distortions. However, no officials, organizations, or direct responsible parties were named, nor was any accountability taken by those who have governed the country for decades.
There was also no discussion about the limits of the centralized model, the lack of civil liberties, or the absence of genuine mechanisms for citizen oversight. "Popular participation" remains an abstract concept in a country where independent press is persecuted, uncomfortable criticism is criminalized, and key decisions are made behind closed doors.
Amidst the economic deterioration, the speech also included repeated promises: reviving the economy, removing bureaucratic obstacles, stabilizing the electrical system, producing more food, and encouraging foreign investment. Nothing that Cubans haven't already heard in other meetings, speeches, or failed plans.
On the other hand, a commemorative program was announced for the centenary of Fidel Castro, aimed at "promoting his thought in the face of current challenges." This decision, far from looking towards the future, once again resorts to nostalgia as a tool for legitimization.
The ruler concluded by speaking of "intelligent resistance" and "not giving up," as if the strain were not already unbearable for an exhausted population. In a country where thousands emigrate each month, hope cannot be manufactured with more slogans or delayed promises.
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