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The Provincial Government of the Popular Power in Matanzas confirmed this Thursday that there will be no carnivals in the city, thus debunking the rumors that had been circulating in recent days both on the streets and on social media.
The governor of the province, Marieta de la Caridad Poey Zamora, clarified that currently there are no material or logistical resources available to organize an event of this magnitude with the quality that the population deserves.
"When the conditions are met that allow for the celebration of such festivities, it will be officially and timely communicated on the pages of the Provincial Government of the People's Power of Matanzas," emphasized Poey Zamora in a statement issued by the Social Communication Group.
Disavowal of rumors
Comments regarding the possible celebration of the carnivals had gained momentum in recent weeks, creating expectations among a population that lives under constant blackouts, food shortages, and a transportation crisis.
The official statement made it clear that, unlike other regions, Matanzas will not have public celebrations this summer.
The news adds to a national context in which traditional festivities have been affected or shaped by restrictive measures and cuts due to the severe economic and energy crisis facing Cuba.
Carnivals in the midst of the crisis
The decision in Matanzas contrasts with what happened in other provinces.
In Santiago de Cuba, the regime decided to keep the traditional Rumbón Mayor in July, although it is restricted to a strict time until 10:00 pm due to the electricity deficit.
Local authorities defended the measure as a way to balance "popular joy" with the needs of the energy system.
In Camagüey, the celebration took place in June with a scaled-down program focused on outdoor spaces.
However, the population questioned the relevance of organizing carnivals amid daily power outages lasting over 15 hours and a severe food shortage.
The most controversial case occurred in Bayamo, where a police officer announced on television that the sale of products such as apples, glasses, and industrial clothing was prohibited during the festivities scheduled from August 7 to 10.
The unusual measure, which was quickly removed from official media, sparked criticism and ridicule on social networks due to its absurd and arbitrary nature.
Between the illusion of celebration and the reality of collapse
The contrast between provinces reflects the strategy of the Cuban government: in some areas, "efforts" are made to sustain the celebrations, while in others, they are canceled due to a lack of resources.
In both cases, what emerges is the evidence of a country where "festive normality" clashes with economic and social collapse.
In Matanzas, the cancellation of the carnivals serves as another reminder that, beyond the parades and the troupes, the current crisis imposes its own rules, leaving citizens without celebrations, without resources, and with increasingly fewer reasons to rejoice.
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