On Thursday, Mexico's President, Claudia Sheinbaum, addressed the removal of the controversial statues of Fidel Castro and Ernesto "Che" Guevara from the Tabacalera Garden in the Cuauhtémoc district of Mexico City. Sheinbaum also suggested that these figures might be relocated elsewhere, emphasizing their significance as part of a "historical moment" linked to the shared history between Cuba and Mexico.
"If the intention is to have them removed, we can discuss it with the head of government since it's a historical moment, beyond agreeing or disagreeing with the individuals, that ties to Mexico," Sheinbaum stated during a press conference. "If the monument is unwanted here, then let's find another location," she added, referring to the decision of Mayor Alessandra Rojo de la Vega, who ordered the statues' removal due to a lack of permits.
Sheinbaum also addressed potential criticism by comparing the situation to the earlier removal of Christopher Columbus's statue, which was restored and relocated after persistent demands from indigenous groups. "That's why I say, if this monument is not wanted, we can coordinate and place it elsewhere," she reiterated.
The controversy erupted following the confirmation of the statues' removal on Wednesday, prompting an immediate response from the Mexican Communist Party (PCM), which labeled it an "unpopular and anti-communist" act. Through their social media, the PCM called for protests.
"Alessandra Rojo de la Vega, Cuauhtémoc's mayor, removed the statues of Fidel and the Che from Tabacalera Garden. The flimsy arguments do not justify such an anti-communist act. It's an affront to the friendship between Cuba and Mexico that will not go unanswered. We call for protests," the PCM declared on their platform.
In a subsequent message, the Communist Party intensified their rhetoric, accusing the mayor of attempting to transform the district into a "right-wing stronghold." "This reactionary thinks she can act with impunity... But it won't happen. Long live Fidel and the Che!" they proclaimed.
These statues were originally installed in 2017 to commemorate the meeting between Castro and Guevara in Mexico before embarking on the Cuban Revolution. Mayor Alessandra Rojo clarified that their removal was due to the absence of legal documentation for their public placement.
While President Sheinbaum advocates for relocating the monument to preserve its historical value, the mixed reactions highlight the deep political and symbolic divisions that Fidel and Che's figures continue to incite in the Mexican context. Furthermore, Mexico City is home to a significant Cuban community, many of whom are stranded in the city, unable to enter the United States after fleeing the island's regime.
Understanding the Controversy Over Fidel and Che Statues in Mexico
Why were the statues of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara removed in Mexico City?
The statues were removed due to the lack of legal documentation authorizing their presence in the public space, as stated by Mayor Alessandra Rojo de la Vega.
What is the Mexican Communist Party's reaction to the statues' removal?
The Mexican Communist Party condemned the removal as an "unpopular and anti-communist" act and called for protests, viewing it as an affront to Cuba-Mexico relations.
What does President Claudia Sheinbaum propose regarding the statues?
President Claudia Sheinbaum suggests relocating the statues to preserve their historical significance and encourages discussion with government officials to find an appropriate location.