Cuba Arrests Protesters Amid Power Crisis

Cuban authorities have launched legal actions against individuals involved in protests following widespread power outages caused by Hurricane Rafael, which recently battered the island. Arrests occurred in the provinces of Havana, Mayabeque, and Ciego de Ávila, with charges including assault and public disorder being leveled against the demonstrators. The government claims these protests resulted in attacks on officials and public disturbances; however, footage from the protests suggests that demonstrators engaged in peaceful actions such as banging pots. The ongoing energy crisis, exacerbated by recent hurricanes, has led to severe electricity shortages, with only half of Havana's residents currently having power. Human rights organizations report that more than ten individuals were arrested, highlighting a trend of increased repression against dissent in Cuba. The government's response has been characterized by a heavy-handed approach, reinforcing its stance against what it terms counter-revolutionary activities.