The Cuban regime attempted to downplay the protest led by residents of Baire, in the Santiago municipality of Contramaestre, claiming it was merely an "exchange" between local authorities and the population affected by power outages.
In this regard, the official page Héroes del Moncada published a note on its Facebook profile this Friday, attempting to downplay the incident that occurred last night in the town of Baire, where several residents took to the streets to express their frustration over the blackouts, food shortages, and the lack of drinking water that has been affecting the eastern population for weeks.
Similarly, people took to the streets to demand freedom, while expressions against the government such as "Down with Díaz-Canel!" were heard.
According to the version disseminated by regime-affiliated media, "the highest local authorities went to the site and addressed the people's questions."
They also stated and explained the "real issues with the electrical service" and appealed for "collective understanding" in light of a situation that they assure is being worked on to resolve.
The text emphasized that after this supposed dialogue, "the tranquility and calm that have always characterized the territory returned."
He also accused users "mostly from abroad" of trying to "manipulate and politicize the situation."
Meanwhile, videos and posts are circulating on social media showing neighbors in Baire shouting slogans and demanding solutions in response to power outages, in a new demonstration of the growing public discontent with the multisystemic crisis facing the country.
The protesters avoided police controls by not using the main road, moving through the side streets (Avenues 8 and 4). Once at the Central Park of Baire, they made their chants heard in front of the police station and the house of the president of the Popular Council.
At the same time, the regime employed its usual tactic of cutting off internet service in the area to hinder the spread of the protest, although connectivity was restored after 30 minutes, allowing residents to share their testimonies on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Protests in Baire and the Cuban Regime's Response
What motivated the protests in Baire?
The protests in Baire were driven by prolonged blackouts, food shortages, and the lack of drinking water that have affected the eastern population of Cuba for weeks. The residents of Baire took to the streets to express their discontent and demand solutions from the government, shouting slogans like "Down with Díaz-Canel!" and calling for freedom.
How has the Cuban regime responded to these protests?
The Cuban regime has attempted to downplay the protests by portraying them as an "exchange" between the authorities and the population. However, it has resorted to repressive tactics such as cutting off internet access to prevent the dissemination of images and testimonies from the demonstrations. At the same time, it has accused overseas users of manipulating and politicizing the situation.
What has been the impact of the protests in the Baire community?
The protests in Baire have highlighted the growing popular discontent with the economic and multisystemic crisis facing Cuba. Despite the regime's efforts to silence dissent, testimonies and videos shared on social media reveal a people who have lost their fear and who demand better living conditions.
What measures has the government taken to address the crisis that has triggered these protests?
The Cuban government has attempted to control the narrative surrounding the protests by criminalizing dissent and disseminating propaganda that portrays an image of calm and control. However, it has not provided real solutions to the energy crisis or food shortages, which has exacerbated social unrest in the country.
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