The Cuban comedian Luis Silva "Pánfilo" set an expiration date for the well-stocked agricultural resources presented by the authorities of Ciego de Ávila on Friday: “Give it a few days,” he stated.
What for the official media was a showcase of agricultural prosperity, for thousands of Cubans was nothing more than another ephemeral state staging during the visit of President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero to the productive sector market La Cuba in Ciego de Ávila.
During the tour, the authorities were greeted with stands filled with fruits, root vegetables, and greens, along with a price list that was surprisingly low, which many residents described as a "temporary miracle."
This Saturday, the official portal Cubadebate responded to the criticism and skepticism of residents on the island with an article titled "It's Not Theater, It's Work", in which it asserts that the list of prices displayed at the inauguration was not a setup.
"It seems like fake news but it isn't. It's Cuba, the exception that confirms the rule until it becomes the rule and not the exception," emphasized the source.
However, the comedian Luis Silva, the popular Pánfilo who made thousands of Cubans laugh for years, responded to the official defense of the event: "No. It's not theater. Give it a few days. When the bosses are no longer around."
The Cubans have continued to criticize the fact that they believe is a staged event set up solely for the presence of the leaders.
“How lovely the lie disguised as truth looks, how prosperous Cuba is! I don’t know how three million people have emigrated from a country that is doing so well,” a user on Facebook sarcastically remarked.
"All of that because they are there," commented a resident. "Usually there is nothing, or everything is priced beyond what anyone can afford."
Many compared the visit to a theatrical performance. "The inspections are acts of theater," wrote an internet user.
Others claimed that the alleged sellers were government officials and that the public was transported by buses to simulate popular support.
Critics also pointed out the contradiction between that official image and the severe food and energy crisis the country is facing.
While the ideal agriculture was being showcased in Ciego de Ávila, millions of Cubans were facing blackouts, inflation, and empty markets.
Frequently Asked Questions about Agricultural Setup in Ciego de Ávila and Pánfilo's Critiques
Why did Luis Silva, known as Pánfilo, criticize the agricultural market in Ciego de Ávila?
Luis Silva, through his character Pánfilo, mocked the setup of the agricultural market in Ciego de Ávila, suggesting that the supply and low prices were merely a facade created for the visit of Cuban authorities, and that soon it would return to the usual scarcity. Silva used his characteristic humor to point out that these displays are only temporary and do not reflect the daily reality of Cubans.
What do Cubans think about Díaz-Canel and Marrero's visit to the market in Ciego de Ávila?
Cubans expressed skepticism and criticism regarding the visit of Díaz-Canel and Marrero, considering the supplied market to be a setup to impress the authorities. Many residents and social media users described the event as a temporary backdrop that does not reflect the true situation of shortages and high prices they face on a daily basis.
How has the official press reacted to the criticism of the market in Ciego de Ávila?
The official Cuban press has denied that the market in Ciego de Ávila was staged, stating that the prices and supply shown are part of a genuine and ongoing effort. However, this stance has been met with skepticism from the population, which sees a clear disconnect between the official narrative and the everyday reality on the island.
What is the context of the food crisis in Cuba surrounding this event?
Cuba is experiencing a serious food and economic crisis, marked by a shortage of basic products, high inflation, and frequent blackouts. The population is facing significant challenges in accessing food at affordable prices, leading events like the well-stocked market in Ciego de Ávila to be seen as temporary setups to conceal the true situation in the country.
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