(CNN) – Thousands of Cubans took to the streets in bizarre protests Sunday to complain about the lack of freedom and the deteriorating economic situation, according to protesters who spoke to CNN, as well as appeared in videos that featured protests in various cities across the country. ..
In the city of San Antonio de los Baños, on the outskirts of Havana Province, hundreds of people faced a heavy police presence to voice their complaints.
One resident, who did not want to be identified, told CNN that residents have been experiencing power outages for a week, and this has “stirred up” the growing anger.
Videos uploaded to social media showed further protests in a few cities and towns on the island.
In some of the videos, people were shouting that they “are not afraid” or want freedom or access to coronavirus vaccines.
The already faltering Cuban economy has been hit hard as imports of tourism and merchandise have fallen sharply during the pandemic. On Sunday, Cuban health officials reported a record one-day increase in new COVID-19 cases and deaths.