If you haven't seen it yet, hurry and find it now. In this "interview" orchestrated by Cuban influencer Papijazzper (Enrique Yobal Suárez Gigato) and released in two brief clips, President Miguel Díaz-Canel shares "everything."
From the intricacies of his relationship with the unofficial first lady Lis Cuesta, to the alleged "affair" with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and even the salaries of himself, Raúl Castro, and the late Fidel Castro, the first secretary of the "glorious" Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) completely "bares" it all.
This comical piece, put together by Papijazzper months ago and now viral on social media, cleverly assembles snippets from other "Díaz-Canel" interviews, resulting in perhaps the wittiest and sharpest dialogue to emerge with the Cuban leader to date.
The Government's Failures
"Honestly, in which sector do you think the government has failed the most?" asks the "interviewer." The "interviewee" lists a lengthy series of shortcomings: "Food production, agriculture, energy, tourism, science and innovation, the biotech and pharmaceutical industry…" Judging by the deepening multidimensional crisis on the Island in recent years, it seems not far from the truth.
Financial Mysteries
At another point in the "conversation," the influencer "inquires" about the earnings of Díaz-Canel, the nonagenarian Raúl Castro, and the deceased commander-in-chief. The leader responds with figures ranging from 13 to over 200 million dollars.
Regardless of how truthful these numbers may be, the privileged lives of Cuban leaders, their families, and associates have long fueled speculation about their incomes, especially as the populace faces escalating levels of poverty and deprivation, hinting at a humanitarian emergency.
A Notorious Nickname
The "interviewer" doesn't miss the chance to mention the nickname by which Díaz-Canel is known among the public, particularly by government critics and opposition sectors. This nickname ("singao") originated from Aldo (Al2), the rapper from the dissenting group "Los Aldeanos," whom Díaz-Canel "listens to" in secret in his car. "And the entire State Council knows it," Papijazzper quips.
"What is the place you'd always like to be?" the fictional journalist asks. The president "immediately replies," "In power." A stance he has consistently maintained, clinging to leadership and declaring that there will be no political changes in the country, and that his tenure is not contingent on negotiations with the U.S.
This mock "journalistic" chat is rich with many more entertaining details, setting itself apart from the propaganda monologues the Cuban leader has shared with his friend Ignacio Ramonet, with La Jornada, or more recently, with Spanish politician Pablo Iglesias.
One last "gem" to mention: the dialogue concludes with a blackout at the Palace of the Revolution.
Could it be a sign of things to come?
Exploring the Satirical Interview with Díaz-Canel
What topics does Papijazzper's "interview" with Díaz-Canel cover?
The "interview" covers various topics, including Díaz-Canel's personal life, alleged romantic involvements, government failures, and the salaries of Cuban leaders.
How does the "interview" highlight government shortcomings?
In the "interview," Díaz-Canel is humorously portrayed as admitting failures in areas like food production, agriculture, energy, tourism, and more, reflecting the ongoing crisis in Cuba.
Why is Díaz-Canel's nickname significant?
The nickname "singao," attributed to Díaz-Canel by the public and critics, underscores the disconnect between the leader and the people, originating from rapper Aldo of "Los Aldeanos."
What does the blackout at the end of the "interview" represent?
The blackout could be seen as a metaphor for the darkness and uncertainty surrounding Cuba's leadership and future.