Psychologist and PCC official, Susely Morfa González, addressed the residents of Villa Clara through social media following her appointment as the new First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba in the central province. Having previously held similar roles in Matanzas, Morfa expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her and vowed not to let the communist membership in Villa Clara down.
"Thank you for the warm welcome and words of support and confidence, I will not disappoint you," she stated. She further committed to working with "complete dedication and devotion" to achieve the outcomes that "the people and the PCC deserve." Additionally, she pledged to "continue working with sensitivity, diligence, and love for the Revolution," urging unity as a means to strengthen the regime's political project.
Leadership Shuffle: Is the PCC Running Out of Political Cadres?
The PCC moves its leaders from one province to another as if they're pieces on a chessboard. More than just loyal servants of the regime, Cuban political cadres seem to be like basic assets that are arbitrarily relocated to see where they present better and play a more effective role.
Morfa's appointment was sanctioned by the Plenary of the Provincial Party Committee, led by Roberto Morales Ojeda, a member of the Political Bureau. The committee decided to relieve Osnay Miguel Colina Rodríguez from his duties, who will now take on new responsibilities within the party apparatus.
Previously stationed at the Central Committee, Morfa was head of the Department of Social Sector Attention. She now must leave her office in Havana to adapt to provincial life once again.
The Political Journey of a Unique Psychologist
A graduate in Psychology and a deputy in the National Assembly, Susely Morfa boasts a long history with the Union of Young Communists, where she rose to be the national first secretary. She also served as the First Secretary of the PCC in Matanzas for three years.
After leaving that position in March 2024, she was reassigned to the Central Committee, confirming her continued political backing at the highest level.
Morfa earned the nickname "the millionaire psychologist" at the 2015 Summit of the Americas in Panama, when she claimed to the press that she financed her trip with her own resources. Her remark, and her defiant tone towards journalist Mario Vallejo, drew criticism and mockery. Since then, many Cubans use this moniker to refer to her on social media and in independent outlets.
Understanding the Impact of Susely Morfa's New Role
What position did Susely Morfa hold before becoming the First Secretary in Villa Clara?
Prior to her new role, Susely Morfa was the head of the Department of Social Sector Attention at the Central Committee in Havana.
Why is Susely Morfa referred to as "the millionaire psychologist"?
The nickname "the millionaire psychologist" stems from her 2015 statement during the Summit of the Americas, where she claimed she paid for her trip with personal funds, a comment that was met with skepticism and derision.
What challenges might Morfa face in her new position in Villa Clara?
Morfa may face challenges such as adapting to provincial dynamics, maintaining the trust of the local communist membership, and achieving political goals amid the shifting strategies of the PCC.