In Miami, Florida, protests have erupted in Cuba as citizens grapple with persistent power outages, food shortages, and soaring inflation, highlighting the country’s ongoing economic turmoil. Cuban studies expert Dr. Andy Gomez from the University of Miami has placed the blame squarely on the Cuban regime for the crashing economy, sparking debates over the root causes of the crisis.
The recent protests in Cuba have been fueled by frustrations over the lack of basic necessities such as electricity and food. The inflation rate has surged to over 30%, exacerbating the hardships faced by ordinary Cubans. While Cuba’s leaders attribute these shortages to U.S. sanctions, critics like Dr. Gomez argue that internal mismanagement and policy failures are primarily responsible.
One key aspect highlighted by Dr. Gomez is the recent firing of Cuba’s economic advisor, which has raised concerns about the regime’s ability to address economic challenges effectively. He questions the whereabouts of millions of dollars’ worth of food purchased by the Cuban government, indicating a lack of transparency and accountability in handling critical resources.
The longstanding economic embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba since 1960 has further complicated the country’s economic woes. However, Dr. Gomez emphasizes that internal governance issues, including the leadership of Cuban President Raul Castro, play a significant role in perpetuating the economic crisis.
According to Dr. Gomez, as long as the current leadership remains in power, substantial changes in economic policies and outcomes are unlikely. His analysis underscores the urgent need for structural reforms and effective governance to address the root causes of Cuba’s economic challenges and alleviate the hardships faced by its citizens.
