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The national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) and former spy, Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, referred to the communist musician Arnaldo Rodríguez as “a deputy who moves crowds” in a message posted on social media, completely disconnected from the social reality of the country.
"A deputy who moves crowds: @arnaldotalisman," wrote Hernández, accompanying the message with hashtags such as #Cuba #CDRCuba #CubaEstáFirme, in reference to the supposed strength of the Cuban political system, despite the growing economic, social, and humanitarian crisis.
An unconditional defender of the regime
Arnaldo Rodríguez, leader of the group El Talismán and member of the National Assembly of People's Power, has been one of the most steadfast and enthusiastic voices of the government for years, actively participating in public events, ideological campaigns, and political programs of the government.
His interventions and publications on social media are characterized by an unwavering defense of the regime, without criticism or nuance, even during the most difficult times for the population.
In January of this year, Rodríguez published a photo embracing Miguel Díaz-Canel during National Defense Day, in which he expressed: “Immense joy to embrace you,” clearly indicating his closeness to the leader.
Weeks later, in February, defended Lis Cuesta, the president's wife, following her controversial appearance on the show “Cuadrando la Caja,” where she tried to justify the holding of cultural events amid the deep national economic crisis.
“The culture is also economy and joy, and it cannot stop,” wrote Arnaldo Rodríguez, attempting to support the official narrative while the majority of Cubans face shortages of food, medicine, and basic services.
Praise in the midst of collapse
The exaltation of Rodríguez by Gerardo Hernández contrasts with the reality of a country immersed in precariousness, where millions of families are unable to meet their most basic needs.
Amid daily blackouts, soaring inflation, a collapsing healthcare system, and record migration, the praise for the state musician feels offensive to a population worn down by decades of unfulfilled promises.
Far from being a representative figure of popular sentiment, Rodríguez has established himself as a face of political opportunism, aligned with power and disconnected from the true urgencies of the people.
His proximity to the ruling elite, along with his frequent appearances in state media, reinforces his role as a propaganda spokesperson rather than as an artist committed to social reality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Arnaldo Rodríguez and the Situation in Cuba
Who is Arnaldo Rodríguez and what is his role in the Cuban government?
Arnaldo Rodríguez is a Cuban musician and deputy in the National Assembly of People's Power. He is known for being a staunch defender of the Cuban regime and actively participates in public events, ideological campaigns, and government political programs. His proximity to the ruling elite and his role as a spokesperson for propaganda have solidified him as a figure aligned with power, disconnected from the needs of the Cuban people.
Why did Gerardo Hernández say that Arnaldo Rodríguez "moves crowds"?
Gerardo Hernández described Arnaldo Rodríguez as "a deputy who moves crowds" in an attempt to exalt his figure as a defender of the Cuban regime. However, this statement contrasts with the reality of a country plunged into an economic and social crisis, where Rodríguez is seen more as a political opportunist than as a true representative of the popular sentiment.
What has Arnaldo Rodríguez's relationship with Miguel Díaz-Canel been like?
Arnaldo Rodríguez has maintained a close relationship with Miguel Díaz-Canel, the ruler of Cuba. In January 2025, Rodríguez expressed his "immense joy" at embracing Díaz-Canel during National Defense Day, thus showing his unconditional support for the Cuban leader. This closeness has been key in his role as a defender of the regime and in his active participation in propaganda events.
What is the current situation in Cuba in economic and social terms?
Cuba is facing a deep economic and social crisis, marked by shortages of food, medicine, and basic services, along with daily power outages and rampant inflation. This situation has led to a health care collapse and record migration, reflecting the population's discontent with the unfulfilled promises of the Cuban regime.
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