The Telecommunications Company of Cuba S.A. (ETECSA), the only legal provider of telephone and internet services on the island, reported that the information circulating on social media about alleged scheduled disruptions due to technical maintenance this Friday, July 11 (11J), the date marking three years since the social uprising of 2021, is false.
"As has happened on previous occasions, false information is circulating regarding maintenance disruptions in the coming days. We remind customers that all official information should be consulted on our institutional profiles or at www.etecsa.cu," the company posted on its official page on Facebook.
A sensitive date for the regime
July 11 has become a particularly sensitive date for the Cuban regime, as it commemorates the largest antigovernmental protests in decades, which shook the country in 2021 with cries of "Freedom" and "Down with the dictatorship." Since then, internet blackouts and communication restrictions have been documented on the island during key days of citizen mobilization.
Although ETECSA has denied that there are scheduled maintenance operations on July 11, distrust remains, especially among activists, independent journalists, and citizens who fear that premeditated digital blackouts will occur again to limit the organization and dissemination of protests.
Criticism of ETECSA's role
ETECSA, which operates as a state monopoly, has been criticized for its lack of transparency, high prices, and its role in controlling connectivity in Cuba. During the protests of July 11, 2021, and on other sensitive dates such as November 15 or the marches for human rights, the authorities resorted to internet shutdowns and restrictions on access to social networks.
In this context, the announcement that there will be no maintenance on July 11 has, rather than calming, generated skepticism among many Cubans, who continue to see the disconnection as a tool of preventive repression.
Frequently Asked Questions about ETECSA and Communications in Cuba
Is it true that ETECSA will perform maintenance on July 11th?
No, ETECSA has denied that there is scheduled maintenance for July 11. The company assured that the information circulating on social media about alleged disruptions due to maintenance on that day is false. They recommend that customers consult official information on their institutional profiles or their website.
Why is July 11 a sensitive date in Cuba?
July 11 is significant as it marks the anniversary of the anti-government protests of 2021, known as the social outbreak of 11J. These demonstrations were the largest in decades in Cuba, and since then, the government has faced criticism for resorting to internet shutdowns and communication restrictions on days of citizen mobilization.
What is the current situation of ETECSA regarding its services and finances?
ETECSA is facing a financial crisis and service issues due to a shortage of foreign currency and an increase in demand. The company has had to redirect resources to repair damages instead of progressing in technology investments. This has resulted in a congested, slow, and unstable network, leading to criticism over its lack of transparency and high prices.
How has the Cuban population responded to ETECSA's measures?
The population has reacted with indignation to ETECSA's recent measures, especially regarding the restrictions and new prices for data top-ups. The criticism focuses on the dollarization of the service, which leaves many Cubans without access to the necessary connectivity, deepening economic inequality on the island.
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