Background on Marta Elena Feitó
Marta Elena Feitó, the Minister of Labor and Social Security in Cuba, resigned following public criticism from President Miguel Díaz-Canel. Feitó, a high-ranking official in the Cuban government, has been responsible for overseeing labor policies and social security programs on the island.
Controversial Statements and Subsequent Dismissal
During a parliamentary assembly, Feitó claimed that there were “no beggars” in Cuba; instead, she asserted that individuals perceived as homeless were “disguised.” Her statement sparked controversy and public outrage.
President Díaz-Canel publicly criticized Feitó for her lack of sensitivity in addressing the issue of vulnerability. He emphasized that the Cuban Revolution’s mission is to ensure no one is left behind, and such comments were seen as insensitive.
The Cuban government announced Feitó’s dismissal, stating that her resignation was accepted due to her lack of objectivity and sensitivity when addressing important social issues. The government focused on attending real-life phenomena that are undesirable in Cuban society.
Feitó’s Perspective on Vulnerable Individuals
Feitó suggested that people in vulnerable situations had found an “easy way to earn money without adhering to proper formalities.” She described these individuals as those who “disguise themselves as beggars” by cleaning car windshields and using the earnings to buy alcohol.
President Díaz-Canel’s Response
Without directly mentioning Feitó, Díaz-Canel expressed his disappointment on social media regarding the insensitivity shown in addressing vulnerable populations. He reaffirmed that the Cuban Revolution’s responsibility is to ensure no one is left behind.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Marta Elena Feitó? Marta Elena Feitó is the former Minister of Labor and Social Security in Cuba, responsible for labor policies and social security programs.
- What were her controversial statements? Feitó claimed that there were no beggars in Cuba, stating that individuals perceived as homeless were “disguised” and not genuinely in need.
- Why was she dismissed? Feitó was dismissed due to her lack of objectivity and sensitivity when addressing the issue of vulnerability, according to the Cuban government.
- What was President Díaz-Canel’s response? Díaz-Canel criticized Feitó for her insensitive comments and reaffirmed the Cuban Revolution’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind.
