Outrage and distrust: The reactions of Cubans to the fourth collapse of the SEN in less than six months

Cubans expressed their frustration over the fourth blackout in six months, criticizing the management of the Electric Union and the lack of solutions. The inequality in access to energy also generated a great deal of outrage.

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The new blackout that occurred this Friday in Cuba has triggered a wave of criticism and indignation among the population, who have expressed their frustration on social media following the fourth collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) in less than six months.

The comments left by internet users on the social media of Unión Eléctrica (UNE) reflect the dissatisfaction with the lack of effective solutions from the state-run company, official misinformation, and the precarious state of the energy system on the island.

Screenshot Facebook / UNE

For many, the complete failure of the SEN is proof of a lack of control over the electricity infrastructure. "It's illogical for the entire system to disconnect because of a single substation; when that happens, it shows there's no control," commented a user, criticizing the lack of protocols to prevent this type of collapse. Another internet user compared the system to "a house of cards," where a single malfunction causes a total blackout.

The questioning of official explanations is another recurring point in citizens' reactions. Some believe that the collapse of the SEN is a sign of negligence and a lack of investment in the sector. "At any moment, the people themselves will take to the streets," warned a user in a tone of protest. Others suggest that the situation has been provoked or that it responds to a structural problem that the government does not want to acknowledge.

There has also been a sense of resignation among Cubans, who have seen these massive blackouts become a common occurrence. "This no longer has any explanation, precedent, or justification," lamented one user, while another asked, "What hope do we have for those of us who are going to die here?"

References to social inequality have also been a constant in the comments. "Those who have money and family abroad own electric plants," denounced a citizen, pointing out how blackouts primarily affect ordinary Cubans. Others mentioned that while much of the country remains without electricity, some privileged areas, such as hotels and businesses owned by high-ranking officials, continue to operate normally.

Despite the Unión Eléctrica's (UNE) attempts to convey reassurance and ensure that recovery is underway, the public continues to demand concrete answers and definitive solutions. "How long will your inefficiency continue to affect the people?" one user demanded, reflecting the collective frustration over the lack of prospects to overcome the energy crisis on the island.

Ten comments that reflect the feelings of the Cuban people:

"At any moment, the very people light up the streets for them."

"It is somewhat illogical for the entire system to be disconnected due to a substation; when that happens, it means there is a lack of control."

"There are no words left, the people themselves were announcing it."

"The SEN and a house of cards are the same story; one card falls and the tower comes crashing down."

5. "What perspective do we have as those who will die here?".

"Those who have money and family abroad own electric generators, etc., etc."

"Why do all the outages in Havana cause disconnections in the National Electric System?"

8. "This has no explanation, precedent, or justification."

"What has fallen here is shame; it has already reached the bottom of the well...".

10. "This country has been disconnected from reality for a few years."

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

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