The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel reacted this Saturday to the protest that took place in Morón, Ciego de Ávila, with a direct warning to those who participated in the unrest: “There will be no impunity for vandalism and violence.”
Through his account on the social network X, Díaz-Canel stated that he understands the public's frustration over the prolonged blackouts affecting much of the country, but emphasized that the government will not tolerate actions that, as he said, disrupt public order.
"It is understandable the discomfort that prolonged blackouts cause in our people... And the complaints and demands are legitimate, as long as they are expressed with civility and respect for public order," the president wrote.
However, in the same message, he issued a warning to those who participated in protest actions that resulted in property damage. “What will never be understandable, justified, or accepted is the violence and vandalism that threaten public peace and the security of our institutions. There will be no impunity for vandalism and violence,” he emphasized.
Díaz-Canel's message sparked an immediate wave of critical reactions on social media, where many users held the government responsible for the energy crisis and the conditions that have led citizens to protest.
"How curious... the same government that has controlled absolutely everything in Cuba for over 60 years now wants to blame others when the country goes dark," wrote a user, who also questioned the state's control over the economy, energy, and institutions while the population lives amidst blackouts and shortages.
Other comments reflected the level of accumulated frustration among many Cubans. "The people are fed up with all the abuses," stated one internet user, while another Cuban noted that the population continues to endure "without electricity, without food, without medicine."
Some also recalled the government's response to the protests of July 11, 2021, when thousands of people took to the streets in various cities across the country.
The protests recorded in Morón are part of other recent episodes of public discontent in various localities, driven by prolonged blackouts, food shortages, and the deterioration of living conditions on the island.
As social unrest grows, the message from the ruler makes it clear that the official response to protest episodes will continue to be characterized by warnings and potential punitive actions against those who participate in disturbances.
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