Cuban Minister Resigns After Denying Beggars’ Existence
Cuban Minister for Labour, Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, resigned after stating that there are no beggars in Cuba, and that those rummaging through rubbish were doing so for “easy money,” which caused widespread public criticism. The comments, made in parliament, were seen as tone-deaf, especially considering the country’s worsening economic crisis, food shortages, and increased poverty levels. President Díaz-Canel also rebuked her comments, which was unusual in the Communist-run island. The resignation was a result of the outcry against her insensitive remarks and the government’s perceived disconnect from the reality of the Cuban people.
John Q. Hosedrinker