Lis Cuesta, wife of the leader Díaz-Canel, and Yadira Ramírez Morera, partner of Prime Minister Marrero Cruz, were seen smiling and relaxed at the gala held on Saturday night in Ciego de Ávila, in celebration of July 26.
Her participation in protocol events and international tours with a smile and apparent carefree demeanor contrasts sharply with the thousands of Cuban women who have been suffering from blackouts and shortages for months.
In the events for July 26, Lis Cuesta appeared in elegant attire with a jovial demeanor and was widely photographed by state media, while millions of Cuban mothers face daily power outages of between six and twelve hours, food shortages, and intermittent public services.
At the same time, Yadira Ramírez Morera accompanied Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, with whom she has also traveled on an official tour to the Republic of the Congo, where she played a social role akin to that of a "second lady."
Ramírez stepped into the public spotlight during that official visit where he distributed food and medicine to local institutions, in an action that many interpreted as a propaganda spectacle while communities in Cuba suffer from extreme needs.
Lis Cuesta has been portrayed by independent media as an emblem of a disconnected elite. Photographs from galas and international events circulate alongside citizen critiques of her privileges while the population suffers from blackouts and energy shortages.
While those connected to power parade at social events or diplomatic trips, thousands of Cuban mothers are facing a persistent crisis.
Widespread power outages, especially since 2024, have left the population without electricity for 6 to 18 hours a day, affecting essential tasks such as cooking, hygiene, and childcare.
Protests and civic discontent have increased, driven by power outages, shortages, and the perception of excessive privileges among the political elite.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Contrast between the Elite and the People in Cuba
How did Lis Cuesta and Yadira Ramírez Morera present themselves during the gala for July 26th?
Lis Cuesta and Yadira Ramírez Morera appeared cheerful and relaxed during the gala held in Ciego de Ávila. Their demeanor contrasts with the situation of many Cuban women who suffer from blackouts and rising costs. Lis Cuesta was photographed in elegant outfits, while Yadira Ramírez accompanied Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz in his social agenda.
What criticisms do the wives of Cuban leaders face?
Criticism of Lis Cuesta and Yadira Ramírez Morera focuses on their disconnection from the realities faced by the Cuban people. They are accused of enjoying privileges while the population endures a severe economic crisis characterized by power outages, food shortages, and limited public services. Furthermore, their appearances at international events and their lifestyle stand in stark contrast to the extreme needs of Cuban society.
How does the economic situation in Cuba affect Cuban mothers?
Cuban mothers are facing power outages of between six and 12 hours daily, complicating basic tasks such as cooking and taking care of their children. The shortage of food and the disruption of public services worsen their situation, in a context of severe economic crisis that has intensified since 2024.
Why did Yadira Ramírez Morera's presence in the Congo generate controversy?
The presence of Yadira Ramírez Morera in Congo was seen as a propaganda spectacle. Her involvement in food and medicine distribution activities contrasted with the reality of scarcity in Cuba, which was interpreted as an attempt to project an image of international solidarity while critical needs persist on the island.
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