The Catholic priest Alberto Reyes praised the courageous attitude of the university students who protested against the ETECSA tariff increase, and stated that, regardless of the outcome, “they have already won.”
His statements were made in an interview granted to La Hora de Cuba and broadcast this week, where he addressed various social and political issues affecting the country.
According to the Camagüeyan priest, the recent student protests represent the most significant social episode since July 11, 2021.
He highlighted that the young people not only stood up with dignity, but also resisted attempts at blackmail by the regime, which tried to placate them by offering more data for browsing.
“No, it’s not our problem, it’s the people's problem,” the students would have responded, according to Reyes, who did not hide his admiration for that stance.
"Whatever happens, they have won. If the government withdraws the measure, it will prove that the people have the power to confront the government."
“And if the government represses, it will be clear that this is a dictatorship that should not exist,” declared the priest, who urged young people to trust in their intelligence and to continue the fight.
Alberto Reyes also acknowledged that university students have demonstrated organizational skills, a sense of community, and civic maturity: "They can be the generation of change, and we will all be grateful to them."
In his conversation with La Hora de Cuba, Reyes reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful protest, described the Cuban political system as a “sham” and denounced the extreme poverty faced by thousands of families, the lack of medications and food, as well as the repression of political prisoners.
Without losing his pastoral tone, he insisted that he is not afraid of state surveillance and that he will live and speak according to his conscience.
"The internet is the great curse of totalitarian systems," he pointed out, referring to the regime's attempts to limit access to information.
Still, he expressed confidence that when the definitive social explosion occurs, there will be ways to circumvent the information blackout.
"Push the wall" is, for Alberto Reyes, a moral obligation. And this time, he acknowledges that it was the students who made it progress.
In a recent post on his Facebook profile, the priest expressed his support for young people, calling their call for a student strike “admirable” and highlighting their ability to mobilize, their integrity, and their bravery in refusing to be manipulated or bought.
"They know that their stance can bring them many consequences," he warned. In his view, the authorities' reaction—labeling the protests as "intolerable" and repeating the rhetoric of foreign intervention—only anticipates the usual repressive script: attempts at negotiation, threats, false accusations, and eventual persecution of student leaders.
For the Camagüeyan priest, if the students win this struggle, it will recognize something much deeper: the true power of the people.
Frequently asked questions about the student protests in Cuba against the ETECSA rate hike
Why are university students in Cuba protesting against ETECSA?
University students in Cuba are protesting against ETECSA due to the increase in internet fees, which they consider unfair and disproportionate. They argue that these measures limit internet access and promote inequalities, making connectivity a class privilege that excludes those without access to dollars.
How has the Cuban government reacted to the student protests?
The Cuban government has chosen not to reverse its decision on the tariff hike, arguing that it is necessary to prevent a technological collapse. The response has been more repressive than conciliatory, with accusations of external manipulation and disregard for the academic strike, without providing immediate solutions to student demands.
What role has Father Alberto Reyes played in the current situation in Cuba?
The priest Alberto Reyes has been a critical and supportive voice for students. He has praised the courage of university students and has denounced the repressive tactics of the Cuban government. Reyes believes that the protests are a reflection of the true power of the people and has called for unity and peaceful protest as forms of resistance.
What are the main demands of Cuban students in the protests against ETECSA?
Students are demanding fairer fees, equitable connectivity, and access to the internet as a basic human right, not as a privilege. They are also calling for the resignation of the president of the University Student Federation, Ricardo Rodríguez González, as they believe he does not represent the interests of the student body.
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