In a candid interview with CNN, Sandro Castro, the Havana-based "influencer" and grandson of Fidel Castro, openly criticized President Miguel Díaz-Canel, asserting that the leader is failing to make the necessary decisions for Cuba's progress.
"In my view, he's not doing a good job because there are so many things that should have been done long ago that are now causing us harm," stated 33-year-old Sandro Castro during the conversation held in his apartment in Havana, a city plagued by frequent power outages.
These remarks are particularly striking coming from a member of the family that established the very system Díaz-Canel now leads, highlighting the regime's erosion amid one of the most severe economic and energy crises in recent memory.
Pro-Capitalism Stance
Sandro Castro declared himself a proponent of capitalism, a stance that starkly contrasts with his grandfather's legacy.
"There are many people in Cuba who think in capitalist terms and want capitalism with sovereignty in Cuba," he stated.
When questioned by the journalist about what Fidel Castro's reaction would be to his grandson's capitalist leanings, Sandro responded thoughtfully: "He was someone with his own principles. Everyone is their own person, of course, but he also respected others. As I said, that's my perspective."
Facing Cuba’s Struggles
The grandson of the historic dictator also acknowledged the hardships faced by the Cuban people, even though he admitted to having a generator—an advantage most Cubans lack.
"You have to fight, as we Cubans say. It's tough, very tough... even for a Castro. You struggle with countless difficulties: one day there's no electricity, no water, shipments don't arrive... it's very hard," he remarked.
Sandro Castro owns Bar EFE in Havana's Vedado neighborhood, where the entry fee is 1,000 Cuban pesos monthly, and there's a minimum consumption requirement of 15,000 pesos per table, equating to two months of the average Cuban salary.
Despite this, he insisted that his family name doesn't provide him with special privileges: "My surname is my surname. I'm proud of it, obviously, but I don't see the help you mentioned. I'm like any other citizen."
Addressing the widespread discontent among the Cuban populace, Sandro Castro was forthright: "Most Cubans want capitalism, not communism. And that has created divisions and, sadly, hatred."
Understanding Sandro Castro's Critique of Cuban Leadership
What were Sandro Castro's main criticisms of President Díaz-Canel?
Sandro Castro criticized President Díaz-Canel for failing to make necessary decisions that would benefit Cuba, leading to ongoing issues that harm the nation.
How does Sandro Castro's view differ from his grandfather Fidel Castro's legacy?
Sandro Castro holds a pro-capitalist stance, which is in stark contrast to Fidel Castro's communist legacy. He believes many Cubans desire a capitalist system with sovereignty.
What challenges do Cubans face according to Sandro Castro?
Sandro Castro acknowledged the difficulties faced by Cubans, such as power outages, water shortages, and supply issues, noting that even as a Castro, he experiences these hardships.