Lis Cuesta Sparks Outrage with Religious Message Amid Cuban Crisis

On September 8th, Lis Cuesta Peraza, the wife of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, reappeared on social media with a religious message that unleashed a storm of criticism. "Today, let us thank the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba's Patron Saint, for looking after all of us, her children," she posted on her official X account, shortly after returning to the island from an Asian tour with the "dictator of her heart."

This post came at a time when Cuba was experiencing a collapse of its National Electric System, leading to widespread power outages that left millions without electricity, particularly in the eastern provinces. On the same day, the tragic death of a young worker at Renté thermoelectric plant in Santiago de Cuba was confirmed following severe burns in a workplace accident.

The stark contrast between Cuesta Peraza's spiritual message and the dire situation faced by most Cubans was seen as a provocation. A note published by CiberCuba on Facebook received over 1,100 comments within 24 hours, sparking a wave of outrage, questioning, and frustration, reflecting the deep discontent her figure generates in large segments of society. "If they're caring for us like this, please stop," commented one user. Another was more direct: "The Virgin protects us from you."

Public Outcry Over Tone-Deaf Statements

Comments labeled Cuesta Peraza as "hypocritical," "cynical," "shameless," and "a serpent." Many recalled her previous controversies, such as in 2022 when, amidst another wave of blackouts, she remarked having "a heart in mop mode," seen as mockery by many enduring without refrigeration, water, or sufficient food. This latest post follows the same pattern: an attempt at empathy disconnected from reality.

"What a cynical woman. She spends her life traveling and flaunting her luxuries, indifferent to the misery this people live in," read one of the most replicated messages. Another noted: "If it were up to you, the Virgin would be on strike. Not even the devil protects you."

The Elite and the Disconnect with Reality

Cuesta Peraza recently accompanied the "apple of her eye" on tours to Vietnam, China, and Laos, where she was photographed in branded dresses, eye-catching accessories, and attending official events, starkly contrasting with the living conditions of ordinary Cubans. "While she travels in air-conditioned planes and walks red carpets, the people cook with firewood, sleep without power, and survive in darkness," criticized another individual.

Amid the declining quality of life, government figures' use of religious references has been perceived as opportunistic by many. "What a nerve," a user wrote. "Cynicism knows no bounds," added another. More spiritually-toned comments included: "The Virgin cares for us, yes, but from you, who have mistreated us for over 60 years."

Religious Symbolism and Political Critique

Public anger also targeted the symbolism behind Cuesta's words. The Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is deeply revered by Cubans, a symbol of faith and resilience for millions. Her mention by someone seen as part of the disconnected elite was viewed as an act of appropriation. "Don't manipulate the people's faith. The Virgin stands with those who suffer, not those who mock," some expressed. Another comment was more direct: "You can't deceive or manipulate the Virgin. She knows well what's inside us. You, empathetic, pious, charitable, humble, simple… you have none of those traits."

Some users mixed religion with political critique: "For the sin of idolatry, this nation is as it is," while others noted, "Your security guards protect you, not the Virgin." The lack of empathy and excess privilege were recurring themes. "Shameless. No blackouts, no shortage of food with dessert. You live like royalty while the people die," wrote a woman. Another post with dozens of reactions claimed: "We thank the Virgin of El Cobre to protect us from them."

Many recalled how, in past decades, the Cuban regime persecuted religion and imprisoned believers. "Are you believers now? After decades of militant atheism, you've discovered faith. What great convenience," one netizen ironized.

Cuesta's unofficial public role was also mentioned. Although not holding the title of first lady, she frequently appears in official events, diplomatic visits, and state media. "They don't want to be called first lady, but she travels as one. Lives like an oligarch, with zero accountability," another Cuban wrote.

Public Sentiment and Social Media Backlash

The level of indignation was such that many questioned her continued social media presence. "The best thing she can do is remain silent and stop offending the people. Her words are a slap in the face to those with nothing," one user expressed.

Public anger also turned personal. Among the harshest comments were: "May God punish you for mocking the people"; "You didn't get off the planes for a minute while the people were in darkness"; or "May the Virgin never hear you again, for the people's sake."

One of the most impactful messages read: "You thank the Virgin while the people live like animals. Hopefully, you feel the heat, hunger, and desperation for at least one day in your life."

Far from generating empathy, Cuesta Peraza's post has acted as a catalyst for the deep-seated unrest plaguing Cuban society, which no longer tolerates hollow pious speeches from communist hypocrites while daily life falls apart. Faith remains alive for many, but not in those who govern.