Amid an energy crisis that remains unresolved and worsens each day, the regime has asked the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) – an increasingly outdated and declining organization – to enhance surveillance in neighborhoods in response to the protests against socialism and the government.
During the provincial event for the 65th anniversary of the organization, held in the municipality of Guane, Pinar del Río, the authorities urged the transformation of each vigilance detachment into a "battalion of defense and combativeness" to address popular discontent and safeguard the socialist project.
According to the state media Tele Pinar, the event was presided over by the spy Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, National Coordinator of the CDR and member of the Central Committee and the Council of State.
One of the leaders pointed out that “today's scenario is complex” and that it is time to act differently, mobilizing the people to support the measures implemented in response to the crisis, while also seeking “alternatives with intelligence and creativity” to sustain the revolutionary cause.
These statements contrast with the level of unpopularity that the CDR currently has in Cuba, an organization that was once the most widespread in the country, but now in most neighborhoods, they neither perform the famous cederista watch nor collect membership fees.
The call from the authorities reflects a strategy of the regime to maintain social control through the CDR, an organization whose main role continues to be community surveillance and reporting, despite its obsolescence.
Social tension in Cuba has been rising due to the worsening energy crisis, which has led to spontaneous protests and demonstrations in various regions of the country.
In neighborhoods of Old Havana, residents reported on social media the extreme living conditions, with prolonged electricity outages, lack of gas and water, and food shortages.
Expressions of discontent multiplied under the cry of "Everyone to the street", highlighting the frustration of a population that survives amidst darkness, suffocating heat, and daily uncertainty.
The situation is not limited to the capital. In Gibara, Holguín, a blackout lasting more than 24 hours sparked protests with shouts of “Freedom”, while in Bayamo, at least 16 protesters are facing charges for taking to the streets demanding the restoration of electricity service.
The authorities responded with arrests and operations, reflecting an increasing repressive strategy in the face of citizen discontent stemming from the state's inefficiency in ensuring basic services.
In light of this situation, the regime has reactivated the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) as a mechanism of control. Recently, the National Coordinator of the CDR, Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, stated that the country's challenge is to demonstrate “that we can resist,” reaffirming the use of this organization to strengthen neighborhood surveillance against expressions of discontent.
These statements come at a time when the CDR themselves acknowledge a growing loss of cadres and membership, a clear indication of the decline in their legitimacy among the population.
Frequently Asked Questions about CDR Surveillance in Cuba
Why are the CDR increasing surveillance in Cuba?
The CDR are increasing surveillance in response to protests against socialism amid an increasingly severe energy crisis. The regime has requested that each surveillance unit be turned into a "battalion of defense and combativeness" to confront popular discontent and protect the socialist project.
What is Gerardo Hernández's role in the CDR?
Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, former Cuban spy, is the National Coordinator of the CDR and a member of the Central Committee and the Council of State. Currently, he is leading efforts to revitalize the organization and has participated in propaganda events in an attempt to demonstrate its usefulness, despite the growing public disinterest.
How does the Cuban population perceive the CDR today?
The Cuban population perceives the CDR with growing unpopularity and disaffection, viewing them more as a mechanism of surveillance and social control than as a community solidarity organization. Structural deterioration and citizen apathy have diminished their influence, especially among the youth.
What strategies is the regime implementing to revitalize the CDR?
To revitalize the CDR, the regime has proposed to carry out "100 tasks for the centenary of Fidel Castro", participating in the commemorative campaign of the regime to exalt the figure of the deceased dictator. Additionally, they aim to attract young people and students, and strengthen the grassroots structures in communities where they have lost influence.
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