Susely Morfa González, a prominent figure known for her controversial public appearances and dubbed the "millionaire psychologist" by many Cubans, has been appointed as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) in Villa Clara. The official newspaper Vanguardia reported that during the Provincial Committee Plenary, led by Roberto Morales Ojeda, a member of the Political Bureau and Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee, it was decided to relieve Osnay Miguel Colina Rodríguez from his duties as the previous first secretary. Colina Rodríguez will be reassigned to other roles within the party framework.
The PCC body then selected Susely Morfa González, who is a Central Committee member and previously headed the Department of Social Sector Attention at the Central Committee. At 42, Morfa is a licensed psychologist and a deputy of the National Assembly of People's Power. Her extensive involvement with the Union of Young Communists (UJC) saw her rise to the positions of second and first secretary of the National Committee. Before ascending to the auxiliary apparatus of the Central Committee in Havana, she served as the First Secretary of the Party in Matanzas.
Why Is Susely Morfa Known as the "Millionaire Psychologist"?
Susely Morfa earned the moniker "millionaire psychologist" in April 2015 at the VII Summit of the Americas in Panama, where her name and image gained international attention. During a heated exchange with journalists, particularly when questioned by Univision's reporter Mario Vallejo, she claimed she funded her trip with personal finances and declared herself "a millionaire," advising the reporter to "update his economic model."
Many perceived these statements as absurd and provocative, leading to widespread ridicule, memes, and criticism, considering that various sources indicated the Cuban government financed her trip. The stark contrast between her official rhetoric and Cuba's ongoing economic hardships solidified the nickname, which has persisted on social media and in independent outlets. This incident, coupled with her political stance, has shaped Morfa's public persona as a symbol of official propaganda and a target for critiques from those opposed to the Cuban regime.
The "Millionaire Psychologist's" Recent Journey Within the PCC
In March 2024, Susely Morfa was replaced as First Secretary of the PCC in Matanzas, a position she held for three years. This change was part of an internal restructuring process within the Communist Party of Cuba, though no public explanation was provided for her removal. Yuniasky Crespo Baquero, also associated with the UJC, succeeded her in a ceremony overseen by Roberto Morales Ojeda.
On the same day, Lis Cuesta, the wife of ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed her support on social media, praising Morfa's "discipline, dedication, and loyalty." This endorsement was seen as political backing from the highest levels amid increasing public scrutiny of Cuba's power structures, particularly concerning the "millionaire psychologist."
A month later, Susely Morfa re-emerged in the political arena as the head of the Department of Social Sector Attention at the PCC Central Committee. This new role indicated that her removal from Matanzas was not a loss of influence but rather a strategic repositioning within the auxiliary apparatus in Havana, thereby reinforcing her presence in the regime's power structure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Susely Morfa González
Who is Susely Morfa González?
Susely Morfa González is a Cuban political figure known for her leadership roles in the Communist Party of Cuba and her controversial public statements. She is currently the First Secretary of the PCC in Villa Clara.
Why is she called the "Millionaire Psychologist"?
She earned the nickname during the VII Summit of the Americas in 2015 when she claimed to be a millionaire and self-funded her trip, despite reports that the Cuban government financed it.
What roles has Susely Morfa held in Cuban politics?
She has served as the First Secretary of the PCC in Matanzas, a member of the Central Committee, and a deputy of the National Assembly, among other roles.
What has been the public reaction to her statements?
Her statements have been widely criticized and mocked, leading to memes and debates, especially given the contrast between her claims and Cuba's economic reality.