Cuba’s Minister for Labour and Social Security, Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, has stepped down after comments she made about poverty caused a strong backlash.
Her statements, made during a session of the National Assembly, dismissed the existence of beggars in the country and suggested that people looking through garbage were doing so to earn money easily.
The remarks sparked widespread criticism both within Cuba and among the Cuban community abroad. Many felt the comments showed a lack of understanding of the country’s worsening economic problems.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded during the same parliamentary session, indirectly addressing the issue.
He said government leaders must stay connected to the daily struggles of the population and not act as if they are above them.
Cuba is currently facing serious economic challenges. Shortages of food, medicine, and housing are affecting many families.
Fuel shortages and regular power cuts have made daily life more difficult. More people can now be seen searching for food in trash bins or sleeping in public spaces, a sign of the growing hardship.
While the Cuban government often blames the decades-old US embargo for the country’s problems, others argue that poor internal management is also a key factor.
Sanctions imposed during Donald Trump’s presidency remain in effect under Joe Biden, putting more pressure on the island’s economy.
Feitó Cabrera’s comments did not go unnoticed. A group of Cuban intellectuals and activists published an open letter demanding her removal, calling her words offensive to those struggling the most. The Communist Party and government later accepted her resignation.
Her departure marks a rare moment in Cuban politics, where public criticism of high-ranking officials is uncommon, and speaking out against the government can come with serious consequences.