Víctor Rolando Arroyo, UPECI
PINAR DEL RIO, June - The proposal by U. S. senators Helms and Lieberman to
support Cuban dissidents with 100 million dollars over the next four years has
provoked heated discussion among the independent sector in Cuba.
Those backing the proposal expressly wish for concrete aid in technology
that will bring the dissidents up to speed with the government's impressive
technological display, whether through computers, cellular phones, copiers or
means of transportation, all of which opponents of the regime lack to a
worrisome extent.
The risk assumed by those of us who remain here does not leave room for
disagreement or for arguments that would allow the government to mount
propaganda campaigns over the destiny of these funds.
It's not a secret that when the Cuban government has decided to support its
belicose friends in Central or South America, the Caribbean, or Africa, it has
not hesitated in providing financial, material, or even human resources.
Many dissidents think that the time is ripe for definitive action, that this
is a "take it or leave it" moment.
On the other side, those who oppose the U. S. proposal argue that it would
provide the Cuban government with pretexts to increase police repression against
the dissidence. It is as well to remember that in almost two decades of
existence, the pacific opposition has not had any outside support and has never
lacked for arrests, jail terms and official slander.
The uncommitted, watching from the stands, point out that the dissidents are
alone, and that without help they will never accomplish any changes toward
democracy.
Throughout history, many countries and governments through the Americas have
provided sanctuary to Cuban patriots and aid and supplies in their battles.
Another aspect to consider is that the Cuban government says it is in the
midst of a "battle of ideas." But against whom? According to the
government's spokesmen, the internal dissidence is a neglegible fringe, and the
other supposed enemy beyond the sea doesn't even bother to find out what is
happening here.
It is evident that the Cuban government is worried. Its own mistakes provoke
discontent among the population that could one day rise to the surface. The
regime is afraid of public debate.
If the battle is one of ideas, solidarity will open spaces for freedom for
many dissidents. There is no need to be embarrassed by present criticism; the
future will speak its true intentions.
\Versión
original en español
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