The wave of protests that swept through eastern Cuba in recent weeks has left at least 15 people detained, according to reports from human rights organizations and independent sources. The demonstrations, sparked by never-ending power cuts and critical food shortages, have been met with security force deployments and arbitrary arrests in Santiago de Cuba and Bayamo.

Repression in Eastern Cuba

The Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) and the organization Cubalex have confirmed that most arrests occurred following the March 17 protests. Among those detained are young people and parents who took to the streets to demand “power and food.” Reports indicate that at least 12 of these individuals remain in police custody, many without formal charges being filed against them.

Santiago de Cuba, the country’s second-largest city, was the epicenter of the grievances. Images of hundreds of people chanting slogans in front of Communist Party headquarters traveled the world, highlighting the social discontent accumulated after years of economic crisis and lack of freedoms.

Energy Crisis and Lack of Answers

The trigger for these protests has been the near-total collapse of the National Electric System (SEN). In provinces like Santiago de Cuba and Granma, residents report blackouts of up to 20 hours a day. “It’s not just the darkness; it’s that the little food we manage to get rots,” said a Bayamo resident anonymously.

Despite the arrival of some Russian oil tankers in recent weeks, electricity generation remains insufficient to meet national demand, keeping social tension at maximum levels.

International Community on Alert

International bodies have expressed concern over the use of force and detentions to silence popular discontent. The situation is reminiscent of the July 11, 2021, events, although this time the government has tried to alternate repression with small deliveries of subsidized food in the most conflicted areas to appease the mood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many people have been detained in recent protests? At least 15 detentions have been confirmed, though the number could be higher due to the difficulty of verifying information in rural areas.

2. What are the charges against the protesters? In many cases, detainees face charges of “public disorder” or “contempt,” terms frequently used by Cuban authorities against dissent.

3. What is causing the protests in Santiago de Cuba? The main causes are blackouts that last for most of the day and an extreme shortage of basic foods such as bread, milk, and rice.

4. Have any prisoners been released recently? Alongside these arrests, some political prisoners have been reported released through Vatican mediation, though many consider this a move to relieve international pressure.