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The Cuban filmmaker Ian Padrón responded this Wednesday to the allegations made by the government spokesperson known as El Necio, whom he labeled as a "liar and coward" following accusations against him regarding the supposed restriction of the copyright of the iconic animated series Elpidio Valdés, created by his father, Juan Padrón.
"You are openly a liar and a coward. All of Cuba sees it and knows it. Show proof that I have restricted in any way the dissemination of my father's work. Don't come up with petty excuses. Stop running from my invitation," wrote Ian Padrón on his Facebook profile, in direct response to the comments of El Necio, whose real name is Pedro Jorge Velázquez, a government-aligned journalist and spokesperson for the Cuban regime.
The controversy erupted after Padrón publicly challenged President Miguel Díaz-Canel and "the defenders of the indefensible" to a debate in front of the public, anywhere in the world.
In response to that publication, El Necio commented on social media that Padrón should "return to the Cuban people the right to watch Elpidio Valdés" and accused him of having restricted the copyright of the work, which, according to him, prevents Cuban children from enjoying it.
The accusation was quickly refuted by Ian Padrón, who denied having taken any action that would limit access to the animated series created by his father, considered an icon of Cuban animation, for several generations of Cubans.
"That's a lie as big as a house. Show proof of what you say. You don't have anything in your mind or in your heart to accept a public debate. Your response is classic of the cowards and liars you defend," the filmmaker declared.
The debate sparked a wave of reactions on social media, where several users defended Ian Padrón and denounced the deteriorating conditions of Juan Padrón's works at the ICAIC studios.
"The figures by Juan Padrón are not visible because they are being destroyed in the ICAIC studios, ask the management why," wrote Eddy Manuel Milanés in the comments.
Other internet users questioned the veracity of the attacks by El Necio, considering it irresponsible to make claims without evidence. "It's absurd, and even more ridiculous to allege that Cuban children cannot see it," expressed user Bel Yase.
Frequently Asked Questions about the controversy between Ian Padrón and El Necio
What is the cause of the conflict between Ian Padrón and El Necio?
The conflict arose when El Necio accused Ian Padrón of restricting the copyright of the animated series Elpidio Valdés, which he claimed prevents Cuban children from enjoying it. Ian Padrón denied this accusation and labeled El Necio as a "liar and coward."
What has Ian Padrón said about the accusations from El Necio?
Ian Padrón vehemently denied having restricted Elpidio Valdés's copyright and challenged El Necio to present evidence for his claims. He called him "a liar and a coward" and criticized his inability to accept a public debate.
How has the public reacted to the controversy between Ian Padrón and El Necio?
The public reaction has been predominantly supportive of Ian Padrón. Many users on social media have defended Padrón and criticized El Necio's statements for lacking evidence. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the deterioration of Juan Padrón's works at the ICAIC studios.
What is the cultural and political context of this controversy in Cuba?
The controversy between Ian Padrón and El Necio is set against a backdrop of strong polarization in Cuba, where artists and intellectuals critical of the regime confront official figures. This conflict highlights the tensions surrounding copyright, censorship, and the cultural situation on the island.
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