Alexander Otaola, a well-known Cuban influencer, has stirred controversy by criticizing what he perceives as the complacency of Cuban women in the face of the island's economic and social turmoil. In a recent live broadcast of his YouTube show, El Mañanero, Otaola voiced his dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of action by Cuban mothers amidst the hardships affecting their families.
"When I was a child, mothers were different," Otaola remarked as he introduced the topic. "I remember Cuban women as being different, not as ones who would accept their child going to bed hungry. Maybe I'm wrong," he continued.
Drawing a stark analogy, Otaola expressed disbelief that a mother could allow her child to go to sleep without food, especially when resources might be available nearby. "I can't understand how a mother can put her child to bed hungry when there's a hotel nearby with everything. Even a dog, without reasoning, will find a way to feed her puppies. She learns to do whatever it takes to feed her young, becoming a fierce protector," he declared.
Otaola, known for his outspoken criticism of the Cuban regime, also highlighted his frustration by questioning how a mother can stand by while her child suffers, suggesting there are ways to find alternatives. "I can't believe you would willingly let your defenseless child, who didn't ask to be born, go to bed hungry, while there's plenty nearby," he emphasized.
His statements have sparked widespread debate on social media. While some users agree with his viewpoint and argue that despair has led many mothers to inaction, others believe his criticism fails to account for the oppressive environment and fear under which Cuban women live.
The influencer's comments come after the fourth nationwide blackout in six months left Cuba in darkness on the night of March 14, due to a malfunction at the Diezmero substation near Havana. This incident resulted in a significant loss of power generation in the western part of the country, causing the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) and affecting millions of Cubans.
At the same time, several hotels and tourist areas were observed to maintain electricity, sparking outrage among citizens. Otaola, a staunch opponent of Miguel Díaz-Canel's government, has frequently urged the Cuban diaspora to pressure the regime. This time, his call was directed towards the island's civil society, urging them to awaken and demand change.
Impact of Economic Crisis on Cuban Women
What are the main criticisms Otaola has about Cuban mothers?
Otaola criticizes Cuban mothers for what he perceives as their passivity in the face of economic hardship, suggesting that they should take more active measures to ensure their children are not going to bed hungry.
How have Otaola’s comments been received on social media?
Otaola's comments have sparked a mixed reaction, with some agreeing with his perspective and others arguing he overlooks the oppressive context Cuban women face.
What recent event in Cuba has exacerbated the economic crisis?
The recent event was the fourth nationwide blackout in six months, caused by a malfunction at a substation, which significantly affected power supply and led to widespread discontent.