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The official spokespersons Arleen Rodríguez Derivet and Bárbara Betancourt denied the student protest againstETECSA's rate hike and blamed independent media for spreading "textbook fake news."
During Chapeando Bajito, a podcast from Cubadebate, the speakers acknowledged the student protests and statements, but assured that “everything has been directed through institutional dialogue.”
"Once again, fake news is pouring in. What has happened in the last few hours has been a genuine war operation, comparable only to the invasion of lies on July 11," they complained.
The spokespeople labeled the journalistic practice of using archival images of university students to illustrate the call for a strike as fake news.
Likewise, the usual inverse logic in the regime's rhetoric was evident as they spoke about university repression in the U.S.
"Because it must be said that no matter how deceitful those lies may be, they are easy to believe in countries like the United States, where students are currently being pepper-sprayed for protesting against the genocide in Gaza, or where funding is being cut from Harvard and non-American students are being imprisoned or deported," they commented.
without explaining what these fake news entail, Betancourt accused the independent outlet El Toque of spreading falsehoods, using as an example a fragment of a video from the independent media where journalist Eloy Viera explained the scam schemes involving remittances from abroad.
"It is outrageous that the hand of justice cannot reach them. Because the lies they are telling about repression in universities are just another lie," Betancourt threatened, once again without providing an example.
However, what these spokespersons present as an institutionalized dialogue overlooks the pulse of Cuban university students who are standing against what they perceive as intolerable measures.
Some of the statements these spokespersons mention without going into detail call for a strike until the situation is resolved or demand the resignation of the leaders of the FEU.
The atmosphere of "dialogue, proposals, and agreements" described by the spokespersons contrasts with the viral videos circulating on social media of frustrated students confronting officials who are unable to address their demands.
The academic strike in Cuba began on June 4 and extends across universities throughout the country, with its epicenter at the University of Havana. The response of the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel has been clear: There will be no reversal of the rate increase.
The student movement shaking Cuban universities not only demands fairer fees and equitable connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Student Protest in Cuba and ETECSA Rates
Why are university students protesting in Cuba?
University students in Cuba are protesting against the increase in mobile internet rates imposed by the state-run company ETECSA. They view these measures as a direct attack on the Cuban people, as they hinder access to information and impact their academic and professional development.
What stance has the Cuban regime taken regarding the student protests?
The Cuban regime has denied the existence of a student strike and has tried to discredit the protests, blaming alleged "subversive campaigns" promoted from abroad. The government insists that everything is proceeding normally and that there is an ongoing institutional dialogue, although this stance contrasts with the reality and the discontent expressed by the students.
How has the University Student Federation (FEU) reacted to the protests?
The University Student Federation (FEU), traditionally aligned with the government, has faced criticism for its stance. Although it initially issued a statement rejecting the new fees, it later distanced itself from the protests, accusing external enemies of manipulating student discontent. This has led to divisions and a growing backlash among students who feel that the FEU does not represent their true interests.
What demands are Cuban students making regarding ETECSA's rates?
Students are demanding the repeal of the new ETECSA rates and more equitable access to the internet. They reject fragmented solutions and sectoral privileges, advocating for fair connectivity that is not limited by purchasing power. Furthermore, they criticize the lack of prior consultation with university communities and call for transparency in decisions affecting their rights.
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