Cuba Faces Severe Energy Crisis Amid Protests and Blackouts

Cuba is currently facing one of its most severe energy crises, with extensive blackouts disrupting daily life. In the province of Las Tunas, residents of the El Maranon neighborhood protested after enduring nearly six days with only 25 minutes of electricity each day.

They voiced their frustrations by banging pots and calling for a stable electricity schedule, a basic necessity that has become a rarity. The situation has escalated following Hurricane Melissa's passage, which worsened electrical supply issues and led to additional protests across various towns.

The Observatorio Cubano de Conflictos reported a record number of protests in November, with many linked to the ongoing electricity crisis, public health concerns, and food shortages. Over 1,300 civic actions were documented, highlighting the population's growing discontent with government inaction regarding the power supply and other public services.

Protesters have expressed feelings of abandonment, citing the lack of response from authorities as they struggle with prolonged blackouts and lack of clean water, which has been contaminated due to heavy rains.

As the crisis deepens, it reflects a broader context of economic hardship and public health emergencies affecting millions on the island.