The Cuban comedian and actor Ulises Toirac made a strong criticism this Wednesday regarding the functioning of the National Assembly of People's Power, denouncing the lack of real debate, the subservience of its members, and the criminalization of dissent within the Cuban political system.
Toirac lamented on Facebook that the deputies do not act in accordance with the interests of the people they supposedly represent, and instead limit themselves to approving decisions he considers outrageous without any questioning.
"Every step taken has the approval and applause of 'our representatives'. The fear of dissenting, of opposing, of being uncomfortable... is criminalized," he wrote on his profile.
The artist questioned that, instead of a critical and representative discussion, what prevails in the Assembly is “automatism” and a false unity that silences any dissenting voice.
"It was discussed a grotesque aberration, focused on in an absurd way, and everything flowed smoothly like a breeze. No one even stood up in indignation and stormed out," he criticized.
Although Toirac did not directly mention which minister he was referring to, there is no doubt that his message is aimed at Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, the former head of Labor and Social Security.
However, he emphasized that even when mistakes are obvious and documented, parliamentary behavior remains complacent, in what he describes as "a devastatingly total practice."
"The enemy is reality," wrote the humorist, a phrase that starkly encapsulates the contrast between the official narrative and the complexities of the situation the country is facing.
His words add to a growing wave of criticism from various sectors of Cuban civil society that question the efficacy and legitimacy of the political representation system on the island, following what happened with Feitó.
After the former minister denied the existence of beggars in Cuba this Monday and criminalized those who seek food or alms on the streets, Toirac responded forcefully.
"We will have clothes that are not for beggars and hands that are not those of beggars, but the majority do not live from our sweat," he wrote in the comments section of a Facebook post where he defined himself as such.
And he added, "I must be someone disguised who evades taxes, but I wouldn't make it to the end of the month if they didn't help me. In Cuba, very few can."
The hashtag #YoSoyMendigo, far from being a self-pitying gesture, was used by the comedian as a label for collective protest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ulises Toirac's Critiques of the Cuban Government
Why does Ulises Toirac criticize the National Assembly of Cuba?
Ulises Toirac criticizes the National Assembly of Cuba for the lack of real debate and the subservience of its members, who, according to him, simply approve decisions without questioning them. He denounces that the fear of dissenting and opposing is criminalized within the Cuban political system.
What triggered Ulises Toirac's criticism of Minister Marta Elena Feitó?
Ulises Toirac launched strong criticism against the Minister of Labor and Social Security, Marta Elena Feitó, after she publicly denied the existence of homeless people in Cuba. Toirac used his platform to denounce that the majority of Cubans live in precarious conditions that border on indigence, even if they may not seem that way at first glance.
How has Cuban society reacted to Ulises Toirac's statements?
Ulises Toirac's statements have sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many Cubans expressing their support and identifying with his message. The hashtag #YoSoyMendigo has been used as a collective denunciation label to highlight the living conditions on the island.
What is Ulises Toirac's stance on the political and economic situation in Cuba?
Ulises Toirac has been critical of the Cuban economic and political model, which he describes as a "congenital malformation." He asserts that the country is experiencing an irreversible economic collapse and advocates for deep structural changes to prevent further deterioration. Toirac has also denounced the government's disconnection from the reality of the Cuban people.
What consequences has Ulises Toirac faced for his criticism of the Cuban government?
Ulises Toirac has faced censorship and pressure from the Cuban government. He has been summoned by State Security and has reported being prevented from working due to his critical opinions. Despite this, Toirac continues to express his views and advocates for a more inclusive and plural Cuba.
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