Rafael Pérez Insua, the former head of the state-run channel Cubavisión known for his role in media censorship in Cuba, is now residing in Miami. He has begun the process of applying for residency through the Cuban Adjustment Act, as confirmed by employees at a Doral office to journalist Mario J. Pentón.
Pérez Insua entered the United States in 2024 using the CBP One application after crossing the southern border. His presence has stirred outrage among the Cuban exile community, who are questioning why a former official of the regime's propaganda machinery is seeking immigration benefits meant for those fleeing persecution.
For years, Pérez Insua led Cubavisión, Cubavisión Internacional, and Canal Habana, adhering to the Communist Party of Cuba's information policies and supporting the suppression of dissenting voices. One of the most memorable episodes during his tenure was the removal of comedian Andy Vázquez from the show 'Vivir del Cuento' after a satire about the Cuatro Caminos market.
Sources from the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television, now known as the Institute of Information and Social Communication, confirmed that Pérez Insua had been inactive since late 2023 under the status known as "pajama plan." In October of that year, he left Cuba for Mexico amid the current wave of migration.
Journalist Pentón attempted to interview him, but the former director ended the call upon recognizing his voice. "He entered like any migrant. Today, he avoids cameras, does not give interviews, and seeks to stay under the radar," Pentón noted.
Initially settling in Texas, Pérez Insua later moved to South Florida. Social media rumors suggest that he and his wife might still be connected to digital and radio media outlets in the U.S.
His situation mirrors that of other former official figures who, after years of supporting censorship in Cuba, have migrated to the United States to start anew.
Cuban Adjustment Act and Migration Issues
What is the Cuban Adjustment Act?
The Cuban Adjustment Act is a U.S. law that allows Cuban natives or citizens to apply for residency in the United States if they have been present in the country for at least one year.
Why is Pérez Insua's application controversial?
The controversy arises because Pérez Insua was a significant figure in the Cuban media censorship apparatus, and now seeks immigration benefits intended for those escaping such repression.
How did Pérez Insua enter the United States?
Pérez Insua entered the United States in 2024 through the CBP One application after crossing the southern border.