In a move that has once again sparked controversy, Lis Cuesta, wife of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, marked his 65th birthday with a message full of adoration on social media. "Díaz mío, I cherish each trace of LOVE you've left in my life over these 65 years," Cuesta wrote, pairing her message with a snippet from Silvio Rodríguez's song "Ángel para un final," which is reportedly the dictator's favorite.
Her attempt at a poetic declaration was met with a wave of sarcastic and frustrated reactions due to the severe economic, social, and political turmoil facing the country. Critics accused the couple of living in luxury while the Cuban population endures shortages and hardships. One commenter remarked, "While you enjoy the perks of power, people are starving in Cuba." Another added, "A picture of aristocracy. Remember '... the humble, for the humble'?"
Public Backlash Against Privileged Displays
Irony was not lost on others, as one individual noted, "How lovely, while the Cuban people suffer, you live like fat pigs in castles. But remember, everything is a matter of time, and you won't be the exception." A young woman questioned, "Oh, if the little piggy is romantic. Do you know how many women are imprisoned in Cuba today for shouting freedom, the freedom your husband Díaz-Canel has kidnapped, who can't celebrate or wish their husbands well?"
The image accompanying Cuesta's message, showing the couple in a loving pose, also drew ridicule. "If Silvio knew you used one of his songs to justify taking someone's husband," mocked one user.
Romantic Gestures Amidst Economic Strife
Last year, Cuesta expressed her affection for Díaz-Canel by quoting Mario Benedetti, describing their relationship as "more than two." In response, a comment read, "Too bad the parents of the 'dictator of your heart' didn't use protection!" while others created memes of the image.
Lis Cuesta and her relationship with Díaz-Canel are a source of discord as they celebrate birthdays and anniversaries in a country gripped by an unprecedented economic crisis, with severe shortages of food, medicine, and basic goods.
Love and Politics: A Disconnect with Reality
The romance between the two, who wed in 2009, is a frequent topic on social media, especially when Lis refers to her husband as her "divine lover" or the "dictator of my heart." While their sweet exchanges multiply, many Cubans living in extreme hardship continue to highlight the disconnect between the ruling elite and the daily realities of the people.
Cuesta's message is not an isolated incident, as she has consistently shown unwavering support for her husband. Many Cubans find this unfortunate, given the country's political and economic climate. As the crisis deepens, criticism of the presidential couple intensifies, widening the gap between those in power and the populace.
Cuesta, who is the director of the Paradiso Agency under the Ministry of Culture, faces scrutiny for her support of high-level cultural and gastronomic events in Cuba, further angering a nation where hunger and scarcity are daily challenges for millions.
The stark contrast between displays of love and the harsh reality of the Cuban crisis remains a hot topic on social media, with Cuesta's post serving as a clear example of how those in power in Cuba are being confronted by a populace weary of empty promises and the excesses of the ruling class.
Public Reactions to Lis Cuesta's Birthday Tribute
What was Lis Cuesta's message for Díaz-Canel's birthday?
Lis Cuesta wrote an adoring message celebrating Díaz-Canel's 65th birthday, accompanied by a snippet from Silvio Rodríguez's song, expressing her appreciation for the love he has added to her life.
How did the public react to Cuesta's message?
The public reaction was largely negative, with many criticizing the couple for their privileged lifestyle amid Cuba's severe economic and social issues, accusing them of being out of touch with the daily struggles of the Cuban people.
Why was Cuesta's message criticized?
Critics argued that Cuesta's romantic gesture was inappropriate given the country's dire situation, where many are suffering from food shortages and economic hardship, contrasting sharply with the privileged life of the ruling elite.