Cuban Labour Minister Resigns Amid Controversial Comments on Beggars

Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera's statements reflect disconnect from growing poverty and food shortages facing the country as calls for her removal grow louder.

Cuban Minister for Labour, Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, has resigned following widespread criticism for her remarks suggesting that there are no beggars in the country. In a parliamentary session, she claimed that the people rummaging through trash were merely choosing to do so for "easy money" rather than out of necessity. This declaration, made amidst a severe economic crisis grappling Cuba, ignited uproar amongst both citizens on the island and the diaspora.

Her comments, delivered during a session of the National Assembly, drew significant backlash, prompting a swift response from President Miguel Díaz-Canel who emphasized the government’s need to be in tune with the realities faced by everyday Cubans. The president criticized the minister for her apparent lack of empathy, a rare occurrence in a country where dissent is typically silenced. Following the public outcry, Feitó Cabrera's resignation was swiftly accepted by the Communist Party.

Cuba is currently experiencing heightened levels of poverty and food scarcity, issues that have become increasingly prevalent as the economy struggles. The sight of individuals searching through garbage for meals or sleeping in doorways has become an all-too-common scene. Amidst escalating fuel shortages and ongoing power outages, many find it challenging to secure basic necessities, including medicine. Feitó Cabrera's comments not only struck a nerve but were deemed insulting to the Cuban populace, leading to calls for accountability and change.

Economist Pedro Monreal humorously remarked on social media that the minister’s claims hinted at a “disguise” as a government official. The societal discontent also saw a number of activists and intellectuals penning an open letter demanding her dismissal. As Cuba continues to navigate its economic woes, Feitó Cabrera's remarks offer a stark illustration of the disconnect between the leadership and the challenges confronting its citizens.