The controversy surrounding Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro, has once again resurfaced after he shared an eccentric celebration for Valentine's Day on social media this February 14th.
In the video, which lasts approximately 40 seconds, Sandro appears with palm trees in the background. He is wearing a black sweatshirt and sports extravagant heart-shaped glasses adorned with small yellow flowers. In his hands, he holds two roses wrapped in plastic, one red and the other yellow, which he crosses over his chest while delivering a message to his followers.
A detail that has not gone unnoticed is the way he positions his fingers. While holding the flowers, Sandro extends the middle finger of his right hand, a gesture that can be interpreted as a provocation or a defiant response to those who criticize him on social media. This element has further fueled the controversy surrounding his post.
“Today I begin from the place I never wanted to start. Today I end where I don't want to see the beginning. Happy Valentine's Day,” Sandro begins, delivering a speech that highlights more incoherencies than a genuine greeting.
“Love each other, kiss each other, cherish each other, do not hate. Peace, harmony, joy. Wishing everyone a great February 14th and blessings,” said Fidel Castro's grandson before announcing that he would have some “Cristalistas,” referring to the drink that many Cubans currently do not have access to.
The video has sparked divided reactions on social media. While some see it as a humorous gesture, others criticize the disconnect from the difficult economic situation facing Cuba.
This is not the first time that Sandro Castro causes a stir with his posts. In the past, he has showcased luxury cars and private parties, which contrasts with the reality of shortages and difficulties faced by the majority of the Cuban population.
The grandson of the Cuban dictator's congratulation comes at a time when the energy crisis has worsened again on the island. For this February 14 and 15, Cuba is facing a severe situation that has led the government to close schools and instruct non-essential workers to stay home due to extensive blackouts.
This situation arose after the failure of a major power plant, leaving only six of the country's 15 oil-fired power plants operational. Additionally, the fuel shortage has prevented the use of backup diesel generators, exacerbating the crisis.
The capital, Havana, has experienced power outages of up to 10 hours, while in other provinces, outages have stretched to as much as 20 hours a day. This situation has heightened anxiety among the population, which is already facing shortages of food, fuel, and medicine, leading to a significant emigration of Cubans in recent times.
Frequently asked questions about the controversies surrounding Sandro Castro and the situation in Cuba
Why do Sandro Castro's posts generate controversy in Cuba?
Sandro Castro's posts generate controversy because they showcase a luxurious lifestyle that contrasts sharply with the hardships faced by most Cubans due to the economic and energy crisis. This behavior is seen as a provocation and a disconnection from the country's reality.
What gestures of Sandro Castro have been interpreted as provocations?
In his recent Valentine's Day greeting video, Sandro Castro extended his middle finger while holding flowers, a gesture that was interpreted as a provocation towards those who criticize him. Additionally, his incoherent comments and the reference to drinks that are not accessible to many Cubans have intensified the controversy.
How does the energy crisis currently affect Cubans?
The energy crisis is causing prolonged blackouts that severely impact the quality of life of citizens, with power cuts lasting up to 20 hours in some provinces. This situation generates anxiety and exacerbates the shortage of food, fuel, and medication in Cuba.
What is the perception of the Cuban regime's management in light of the current crisis?
The management of the Cuban regime is viewed negatively by the population, due to the lack of transparency and incompetence in addressing the energy crisis. The inequality in the distribution of blackouts also creates a climate of widespread indignation among the citizens.
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