Cuban activist Rosa María Payá, known for her advocacy of human rights and democracy in Cuba, issued a powerful retort to leader Miguel Díaz-Canel following the government's call for a "March of the Combative People" scheduled for Friday, December 20. Payá, daughter of the late dissident Oswaldo Payá, took to social media to criticize the leader's actions, distilling her message into one word: "Leave."
"Over 800 protests in October, nearly 800 in November. Díaz-Canel, your marching charade fools no one. You and your bosses not only fund terrorism but enact state terrorism daily against Cubans. Despite the crackdown, people continue to protest because resolving the crisis requires getting rid of you. March, yes, but you should leave!" Payá declared.
Payá's remarks come amid a backdrop of mounting social unrest on the island, characterized by economic turmoil, frequent blackouts, mass migration, and severe repression of opposition voices.
Discontent Amidst a Forced Show of Unity
The march, orchestrated by Díaz-Canel, featured his rhetoric laced with slogans and his routine accusations against the United States, blaming the internal crisis on the "criminal and genocidal blockade." This event aims to project an image of unity and resilience among the populace, though it's well-known that most attendees participate under duress, fearing unemployment or governmental repression.
The phrase "Leave," championed by Payá, has echoed as a rallying cry of frustration against a regime facing one of its most challenging periods since the July 11, 2021, protests.
Viral Satire and the Disconnect of the Elite
Alongside Payá's message, a satirical theme has gained traction online. "Let Sandro Go," attributed to the anonymous profile "Edmundo Dantés Junior" and generated using Artificial Intelligence, has sparked both laughter and debate, highlighting the privileges enjoyed by Cuba's ruling class. This includes Sandro Castro, grandson of dictator Fidel Castro, who recently celebrated his birthday lavishly at a Havana bar.
Sandro, known not only for being a businessman and owner of the bar EFE but also for his extravagant lifestyle, epitomizes the disconnect between the privileged elite and the Cuban people.
Understanding the Current Situation in Cuba
What prompted Rosa María Payá to respond to Díaz-Canel?
Rosa María Payá responded to Díaz-Canel's call for a "March of the Combative People" by criticizing the government's actions and urging him to "Leave," reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction.
What is the significance of the phrase "Leave" in this context?
The phrase "Leave," used by Payá, symbolizes the public's frustration with the Cuban regime and calls for a change in leadership to address the island's crises.
Why is Sandro Castro mentioned in the article?
Sandro Castro, Fidel Castro's grandson, is mentioned as a symbol of the disconnect between Cuba's elite and its citizens, highlighted by his luxurious lifestyle amidst the country's struggles.