In a broadcast where it became clear that the regime demands that the people accept the rate increase without complaint or face the disappearance of ETECSA and even of the internet, and where it was also suggested that Cubans should be grateful, the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel stated this Thursday that the new measures aim to prevent a technological collapse and eventually improve the quality of the service.
During his official podcast From the Presidency, Díaz-Canel acknowledged that the telecommunications system is facing “a complex situation from a technological standpoint” and warned that if current decisions are not implemented, the country would be “very close to collapse.”
"When a technological collapse occurs, we will also be questioned as to why we did not act," he said, framing the narrative of an unpopular measure presented as inevitable.
The ruler argued that the limited availability of foreign currency jeopardizes the stability of the service and that complaints about the slowness of the network —“the connection is impossible,” he repeated— have become part of everyday language.
Although he acknowledged that "there is never a better time for measures that remove or limit social benefits," he justified the rate hike as an indispensable step.
Díaz-Canel affirmed that it is necessary to establish limits so that the system continues to function, but also to, in his words, "advance in the development of the system."
He described the decision as a "tactical withdrawal": "We were making progress, we have to stop, step back a little to gather what we need."
And, with the utmost cynicism, he promised that, in time, they would be able to "regain the rhythms and even surpass the rhythms we had."
Furthermore, he stated that it is not about stopping digital progress, but about adjusting the pace.
According to him, the situation is the result of a "confluence of internal factors, but primarily external and induced ones," which has made it technically unsustainable to advance at the desired speed.
He added that to the extent that these decisions "start to work" and the "content of these measures is refined," it will be possible to make progress in the digital transformation strategy, including the application of artificial intelligence in services, production, and other areas of national life.
The statements come amid widespread public discontent following the implementation of new rates and restrictions on mobile services.
Far from offering immediate solutions, the official discourse once again insists on sacrifice as the only option, while millions of Cubans face inflated prices, limited access, and a digital disconnect imposed by the State.
Also this Thursday, amid the growing public backlash against the price hike implemented by the state-owned ETECSA, its president, Tania Velázquez, anticipated a possible "widespread failure" of the national telecommunications system.
"Certain failures have been appearing in this infrastructure that are leading us down a path [...] where we foresee that a widespread failure may occur at some point," said Velázquez.
According to the official, the consequences of this alleged failure would be “that we cannot make phone calls, that we cannot send messages, that we cannot reach our places of study or work [...]”, she added, describing a scenario of almost total collapse of the telecommunications system on the island.
The podcast on Thursday, June 5, was promoted amid an indefinite academic strike led by university students, especially from the University of Havana.
The movement demands not only equitable connectivity for students but also true access for all Cubans.
The official response has been a call to “close ranks” against what the regime labels as a “media war” driven by “enemies of the system”.
The students are now even calling for the resignation of the national president of the FEU, Ricardo Rodríguez González, accusing him of failing to represent student interests.
Frequently Asked Questions about ETECSA's Rate Increase in Cuba
Why has the Cuban government implemented the rate hike on ETECSA services?
The Cuban government justifies the rate hike as a necessary measure to prevent a technological collapse and eventually improve the quality of service. According to Miguel Díaz-Canel, the lack of foreign currency jeopardizes the stability of the country's telecommunications system, and the new rates are a response to this complex economic situation.
How do the new ETECSA rates affect Cuban users?
The new rates severely restrict the use of Cuban pesos (CUP) for top-ups and prioritize packages purchased in dollars. This has led to widespread citizen rejection, as the cost of the new data packages can exceed several minimum salaries, rendering the service practically inaccessible for most of the population that does not receive remittances in foreign currencies.
What impact do these measures have on the vulnerable sectors of Cuba?
The measures particularly affect students and healthcare professionals, who rely on the internet for studying, working, or providing essential services. Although the government announced that it is working on solutions for these sectors, it has not provided concrete details or implementation timelines, which generates skepticism among the public.
Are there alternatives for those who cannot afford the new prices of ETECSA?
ETECSA has promoted dollar plans and offered an additional 6 GB for free to educational sites as a relief measure. However, these alternatives are seen as inadequate, and students are demanding equitable internet access for all Cubans, not just for those who can receive remittances or have access to foreign currency.
What has been the Cuban people's reaction to ETECSA's price hike?
The rate hike has triggered massive backlash among the Cuban population, including criticism from sectors that traditionally support the government. Social media has been flooded with memes and satires criticizing the measure, and university students have organized academic strikes in protest against the imposed restrictions.
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