Cuban President Warns Protesters Against Blocking Roads Amid Service Shortages in Havana

President Issues Warning Amid Growing Unrest

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel issued a firm warning on October 4, 2025, to citizens protesting in Havana over persistent shortages of basic services. The President stated that 'measures will be taken' against individuals blocking public roads, labeling such actions as 'unacceptable public disorder.' This declaration came during a meeting focused on addressing the escalating crises in water, electricity, and waste management that have plagued the capital.

The warning follows several days of heightened tensions and complaints from residents experiencing severe disruptions to essential services. While acknowledging the public's legitimate grievances, Díaz-Canel emphasized that concerns must be channeled through established avenues, including the Party, government institutions, and state entities.

Deepening Crisis in Basic Services

The recent protests in Havana are a direct response to the deteriorating availability of fundamental services. Residents have faced prolonged power outages, some lasting up to 24 hours, alongside significant water shortages and issues with waste collection. These conditions have led to widespread frustration, impacting daily life and exacerbating the country's broader economic challenges. The President conceded that the problems are 'substantial' and 'cannot be solved over a weekend,' also admitting to 'accumulated organizational problems' within the system.

The current wave of discontent echoes previous demonstrations, such as those in March 2024, when Cubans in various provinces, including Santiago de Cuba, protested similar issues of electricity and food scarcity.

Government Response and Control Measures

In addition to the warning against road blockades, President Díaz-Canel outlined several control measures aimed at mitigating the crisis and managing public order. These include:

• Inspections of non-state sector centers to ensure compliance with electricity consumption plans, with the threat of closure for non-adherence.
• Implementation of a fuel control system specifically designated for the capital.
• Prioritization of efforts to restore water supply in areas experiencing prolonged disruptions.
• Encouragement of community involvement in cleaning and beautification tasks, alongside mobilizing workplaces to support neighborhoods.

The government has also reinforced its stance by stating that public disorder is 'inadmissible' and that those who disrupt essential services will face consequences.

Broader Context of Economic Hardship and Political Stance

Cuba is currently grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades, a situation attributed to a combination of factors including the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on tourism, the long-standing U.S. trade embargo, and what some describe as inefficient government management. President Díaz-Canel and other Cuban officials frequently attribute the island's economic woes and social unrest to the U.S. embargo and alleged external interference aimed at destabilizing the country.

Despite acknowledging the legitimacy of some public demands, the Cuban government maintains a firm stance against unauthorized protests, often describing them as 'counterrevolutionary' and financed from abroad. This position underscores the ongoing tension between citizen grievances over living conditions and the government's efforts to maintain political control.