Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro and a 33-year-old influencer from Havana, stated in an exclusive interview with CNN that the majority of Cubans want a shift in the economic model towards capitalism, a statement that has generated significant reaction due to the symbolic weight of his surname.
The interview, conducted by correspondent Patrick Oppmann in Havana, took place in the young man's own apartment amidst an energy crisis that has caused widespread blackouts across much of the country, in one of the most challenging moments for the island in decades.
"I believe that the majority of Cubans want to be capitalists, not communists," Castro stated, acknowledging that these differing viewpoints have caused tensions and division within society.
Nieto de Fidel Castro y Dalia Soto del Valle, Sandro is part of a family historically involved in secrecy, adds CNN. His father, Alexis Castro Soto del Valle, a telecommunications engineer, has also been active on social media, where he shared family memories and veiled critiques of recent economic decisions, although in 2024 he announced a “digital detox” and stopped posting.
During the interview, Sandro Castro spoke openly about his personal aspirations, which include starting businesses such as beer production and acquiring nightclubs. However, he expressed frustration with the bureaucratic hurdles that, according to him, hinder economic development in Cuba.
"We need to open up the economic model, eliminate bureaucracy," he stated, in a direct critique of the system established by his own grandfather.
Although he defined himself as a "revolutionary of ideas, progress, and change," he did not hesitate to question the management of the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel. "For me, he is not doing a good job," he stated.
The influencer also revealed that his posts on social media—many of which are controversial, where he mocks blackouts or shortages—have led to him being summoned by State Security. He explained that he was released with a warning, as he had not incited violence.
Despite praising the figures of Fidel Castro and Raúl Castro, he refrained from commenting on whether the revolution improved life on the island. “I was born after 1959, so I can't say,” he replied.
In contrast, he was more explicit when referring to the country's economic future and the possibility of changes in its model. "There are many people in Cuba who think in a capitalist way; they want to practice capitalism with sovereignty," he stated.
His statements come in the context of a prolonged crisis marked by shortages, inflation, and a steady decline in living conditions, which has driven thousands of Cubans to emigrate in recent years.
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