The protest that began as a demonstration by residents in Río Cauto, Granma, turned into a massive mobilization this Friday, with hundreds of people taking to the streets to demand the release of Mayelín Carrasco Álvarez, a mother of three who was detained this week after speaking out about the extreme shortages and hunger in her community.
The protesters, mostly local residents, chanted slogans like “Freedom for Mayelín” and displayed signs in her support, while other residents banged their cookware.
The videos shared on Facebook show various moments of the protest and the arrival of several police patrols to suppress the demonstration. However, the neighbors remained in the streets and rejected the police presence.
Mayelín Carrasco, 47 years old, had publicly reported the scarcity of food items such as milk and eggs, and the lack of basic resources for cooking. Furthermore, she referred to the crisis the island is experiencing, stating that "everything has already collapsed" in reference to the economic situation facing the country.
The arrest of Mayelín Carrasco took place on Thursday, and during her interrogation, she fainted and was taken to a hospital in the area before being transferred to Bayamo.
The Government of Río Cauto, through a statement on social media, attacked the woman and attempted to discredit her by claiming that they offered Carrasco several solutions to her situation, including a "temporary" housing made of "wood and zinc."
The inhabitants of Guamo Viejo, who see Carrasco's protest as a reflection of their own struggles, have taken to the streets in solidarity. Many fear that the authorities will attempt to discredit Carrasco, claiming that his protest was the result of mental health issues rather than a legitimate demand for citizens' rights.
Frequently Asked Questions about the protest in Río Cauto over the detention of Mayelín Carrasco
Why was Mayelín Carrasco Álvarez arrested in Río Cauto?
Mayelín Carrasco Álvarez was detained for protesting against food shortages and the economic crisis in Río Cauto, Granma. The mother of three publicly denounced the lack of basic resources for her family, which resulted in her arrest by the political police of the Cuban regime.
How did the Río Cauto community react to the arrest of Mayelín Carrasco?
Hundreds of people gathered for a massive protest in Río Cauto to demand the release of Mayelín Carrasco. The demonstrators chanted supportive slogans and displayed signs in her favor, while others rang pots as a show of solidarity for her cause.
What actions did the government of Río Cauto take regarding Mayelín Carrasco?
The government of Río Cauto attempted to discredit Mayelín Carrasco by claiming they offered solutions to her situation. However, the offers, such as temporary housing made of wood and zinc and state jobs with insufficient salaries, were deemed inadequate by Carrasco, who continued to demand basic rights for her family.
What impact did Mayelín Carrasco's protest have on the discussion about the economic situation in Cuba?
The protest by Mayelín Carrasco has intensified the discussion about the economic crisis and scarcity in Cuba. Her bravery in denouncing the precarious living conditions in her community has resonated throughout the country, highlighting the growing social discontent and state repression in response to the legitimate demands of the population.
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