"We are facing many economic difficulties, aggravated by the US blockade and inflation, but measures are being implemented to counteract them. It is possible to move forward with joy and optimism," said Osbel Lorenzo Rodríguez, first secretary of the Communist Party in this territory, at the provincial ceremony for the 72nd anniversary of the attacks on the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes barracks.
The evening was also attended by provincial governor Yelenis Tornet Menéndez, as well as the main leaders of the Party and the Government in this part of the country, together with representatives of civil society and a large representation of the Colombian people.
Like the rest of our archipelago, the economy of Las Tunas is under pressure, first and foremost, said the party leader, due to the “intensification of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade by the United States”; the global post-pandemic crisis; and armed conflicts. Taken together, he explained, these factors have led to rising food and fuel prices, with a severe impact on the population. Domestically, he denounced the existence of “abusive and speculative prices in the retail market,” which directly affect the purchasing power of working people.
Faced with this scenario, the First Secretary of the Party here emphasized the need to boost local production, especially in the agricultural sector, both in the productive centers that cover large areas of land, such as the one already existing in the municipality of Jesús Menéndez. But, at the same time, he insisted on self-sufficiency with more productive gardens and intensive planting throughout the year. He said that livestock recovery is urgent, prioritizing the fulfillment of milk and meat production plans. After acknowledging the poor results of the most recent sugar harvest, he assured that work is being done to improve planting and industrial efficiency.
The authorities' program to eliminate distortions and correct distortions in the domestic economy, he also stressed, includes efforts to advance renewable sources for electricity generation, already reflected in the start of operations at the Nueva Línea photovoltaic park, with a capacity to contribute 21.8 megawatts to the national electricity system during peak daytime hours.
In his first speech at a mass rally in Las Tunas, after his election last March to lead the Provincial Committee of the political organization here, Lorenzo Rodríguez was emphatic in his words against corruption and in favor of institutional strengthening, stating that “fraud and illegalities will be firmly confronted, regardless of their origin.” To this end, he assured that popular control and the work of the inspection bodies will be strengthened. He also urged management cadres to be more proactive. “They must seek creative and sustainable solutions; bureaucracy has no place here,” he said.
Despite the difficulties, the First Secretary praised the progress made in basic services infrastructure, such as repairs to hospitals, roads, and cultural spaces. He also praised the Leñadores de Las Tunas baseball team, national champions for the second consecutive year.
Osbel Lorenzo Rodríguez concluded his speech with a message of hope: “Las Tunas never lags. With unity and hard work, we will overcome this crisis. Yes, we can!” He also reaffirmed the commitment to honor the legacy of Fidel Castro on the centenary of his birth in 2026, promoting projects that reinforce revolutionary values.
During the ceremony, the organizations in the Colombian region that stood out for their contribution to earning the right to host the Las Tunas celebrations on July 26 were also honored. Public entities and provincial-level executives who have done outstanding work this year were also honored. A hundred Las Tunas residents received their membership cards for the Communist Party of Cuba.
VALUE APPRECIATED IN ADVERSITY
Despite the financial hardship the nation is experiencing, this celebration of the Moncada feat was not without the traditional inaugurations of works of social and economic relevance. This adversity, therefore, enhances the value of the properties repaired or built in this municipality in a fitting tribute to the heroes of July 26.
This Wednesday, in “Colombia,” three vulnerable families received their homes, while La Nueva flower shop opened its new premises, now located directly opposite the local funeral home, making such a sensitive service more functional for the community.
The main authorities of the Party and the Government confirmed that a drinking water pumping station is now ready in the Alba Flores community, which is transforming. This facility solves a problem that has existed for several years and will directly benefit 72 residents of the neighborhood. For its part, the sugar worker's house underwent major repairs, while the Casa del Artesano (Artisan's House) opened its doors, which will host the Eliarte sociocultural project, giving a boost to the efforts of local creators.
In addition, the Municipal Court of Colombia has a new spacious and comfortable headquarters, “beautiful for a dignified community,” according to its workers and managers. On the other hand, at the Álvaro Barba Machado meat processing plant, a sausage packaging line with a production capacity of 11 tons per day was activated.
Last but not least, the Gotitas de Rocío nursery school, attached to the secondary school in the Anacaona countryside, was officially opened. Its capacity for 20 children is very good news for the families of People's Council 1.
