Lis Cuesta Peraza, the wife of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, stirred controversy this Wednesday with a post on her X account, stating 'Present, now and always!' alongside an image of the white scarf symbol of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo. This post was meant to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Argentina's civic-military coup.
However, the message quickly attracted a wave of criticism accusing her of hypocrisy for failing to acknowledge the political prisoners of Cuba's own oppressive government.
Cuesta's post was part of the 'Florecerán Pañuelos' campaign, which honors Azucena Villaflor de De Vicenti—the founder of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo who was kidnapped and disappeared on December 10, 1977, from her home in La Boca, with her remains only being identified in 2005.
The image included the words '30 THOUSAND COMRADES PRESENT, NOW AND ALWAYS! 1976 • MARCH 24 • 2026,' alluding to the approximately 30,000 individuals who disappeared during Argentina's dictatorship under the National Reorganization Process led by Videla, Massera, and Agosti.
While the post garnered 700 views, 32 likes, and 17 comments, most were critical in nature.
Backlash Against Silence on Cuban Repression
Critics pointed out the inconsistency of the Cuban first lady honoring victims of a foreign dictatorship while remaining silent about the repression by the regime she is part of.
Among the harshest comments, one user exclaimed: "Seriously??? Argentina??? And what about Cuba??? How shameless can you be!!!"
Another directly questioned: "Lis, aren't you going to denounce the Cuban dictatorship's genocide against its people? Do you realize how fake you are?"
The criticisms come amid warnings from the United Nations about a humanitarian crisis in Cuba requiring $94 million for relief efforts.
A Record of Controversial Statements
This incident is just the latest in a series of contentious posts by Lis Cuesta. In March 2026, she described Cuba's healthcare crisis as 'very sad,' and on March 8, she acknowledged the 'hard times' faced by Cuban women without offering tangible solutions from her privileged position.
In November 2025, she faced backlash for discussing children's rights amidst the island's ongoing crisis, and in that same month, she admitted things were going poorly and sought solace in Fidel Castro.
Her public image has also been scrutinized for her luxury fashion choices at official events while the Cuban population struggles with shortages of food, medicine, and electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lis Cuesta's Controversial Post
Why did Lis Cuesta's post on Argentina's dictatorship spark criticism?
Lis Cuesta faced backlash because her post commemorated victims of Argentina's dictatorship while she remained silent on the oppression and political prisoners under Cuba's regime.
What campaign was Lis Cuesta's post part of?
Her post was part of the 'Florecerán Pañuelos' campaign, which honors the memory of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo and their fight against Argentina's dictatorship.
How have Lis Cuesta's previous statements been received?
Lis Cuesta's previous statements have often generated controversy, as she has commented on issues like Cuba's healthcare and women's rights without offering solutions, drawing criticism for her perceived insensitivity and hypocrisy.