The public representation team of El Funky issued an official statement rejecting the claims made by the YouTuber Alain Paparazzi Cubano regarding the rapper's immigration situation.
In that statement, Alain's remarks are described as "defamatory" and part of a "sustained campaign of defamation and discredit."
The team from El Funky emphasized that their immigration situation is being handled by their lawyer Miguel Linda Romero, and they categorically rejected the accusations.
"We categorically deny each of the allegations made, including insinuations related to El Funky's personal life, character, and conduct", stated the official statement.
The statement also urged the Cuban community not to allow "irresponsible voices to tarnish a cause that demands unity, integrity, and commitment to the truth."
Alain Paparazzi Cubano, known for his broadcasts and commentary on topics related to Cuba, recently made strong statements about the Cuban artist, recognized for his participation in the emblematic song “Patria y Vida”.
During his broadcast, Alain stated that El Funky's criminal record in Cuba is related to common crimes and not political causes.
According to the explanation, U.S. immigration authorities denied residency to El Funky due to his criminal record on the island, which includes a conviction for possession of prohibited substances in 2017.
"The crimes and the background of Funky have nothing to do with anything political. Funky was never imprisoned in Cuba for anything political," Alain assured.
In this regard, he criticized those who defend El Funky by portraying him as a victim of the Cuban regime, noting that they would be ignoring his criminal record.
The YouTuber also questioned human rights organizations and politicians who support El Funky, arguing that they should focus on defending true political prisoners in Cuba rather than individuals with common criminal backgrounds.
On the other hand, Alain mentioned that El Funky would have entered the United States on a tourist visa and applied for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, but his process may have become complicated due to his criminal record.
According to their words, the immigration authorities have access to information that may have influenced the decision to deny residency.
"Something very serious is about to come out from this guy, and the authorities in the United States know it. It’s no coincidence they denied Funky residency," Alain stated, hinting that there may be more relevant information that has yet to be revealed.
In another broadcast, Alain Paparazzi Cubano once again addressed the case of El Funky, questioning the truth of his claim that he faces potential deportation from the United States.
"What is the anti-communist trajectory that he claims to speak of?" Alain questioned, pointing out that El Funky never participated in the protests of July 11 in Cuba and that, according to his own statements, he was escorted to the airport by agents of the Cuban state security.
Alain also questioned the claim that El Funky was an opponent, highlighting that other activists like Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Michael Osorbo did face imprisonment in Cuba.
On May 8th, Eliéxer Márquez Duany, the real name of El Funky, reported on his social media that he has 30 days to leave the United States or he will be deported.
In his message, he called on "Cuban brothers who are aware of his anti-communist trajectory" and on U.S. congressmen to lend their support in this critical moment.
His lawyer, Miguel Linda Romero, also made a statement on the matter, confirming his commitment to defend his client.
"I will fight for you until the end and I will never give up. I am already working on your appeal and I know we are going to achieve a victory," he expressed.
It is important to note that in Cuba, it is a common practice of State Security to classify actions they consider political as common crimes. This strategy aims to complicate requests for political asylum in other countries by portraying opponents as common criminals.
The conflict between Alain Paparazzi Cubano and El Funky is not recent. In August 2022, El Funky publicly attacked Alain, accusing him of targeting and discrediting figures from the Cuban exile community. On that occasion, the rapper defended his path as an artist and anti-communist activist, while Alain questioned his authenticity and motives.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Conflict between El Funky and Alain Paparazzi Cubano
Why does El Funky accuse Alain Paparazzi Cubano of defamation?
El Funky accuses Alain Paparazzi Cubano of defamation because the latter has made public statements questioning the rapper's immigration status and suggesting that his criminal record in Cuba includes common offenses, which may have impacted his residency application in the United States. El Funky's team views these claims as part of a defamation campaign.
What is the current immigration situation of El Funky in the United States?
El Funky has reported that he has 30 days to leave the United States or face deportation. His lawyer, Miguel Linda Romero, is working on an appeal to overturn this decision, which is apparently influenced by his criminal record in Cuba.
What criminal record does El Funky have in Cuba according to Alain Paparazzi Cubano?
Alain Paparazzi Cubano claims that El Funky's criminal record in Cuba is related to common offenses, such as a conviction for possession of prohibited substances in 2017, and not for political reasons. These assertions have been denied by El Funky's legal team.
How has the Cuban community responded to the case of El Funky?
The team of El Funky has made a call to the Cuban community not to be influenced by irresponsible voices that seek to discredit the rapper's cause. Additionally, figures such as activist Amelia Calzadilla have expressed their support, warning about the risks El Funky would face if deported to Cuba.
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