Sandro Castro, known as both an influencer and nightlife entrepreneur in Havana, recently shared insights about his grandfather, Fidel Castro, noting that he was a man of principles. This came in response to a question about how the iconic leader of the Cuban revolution might feel about his grandson's capitalist inclinations.
During an exclusive interview with CNN, conducted in Sandro Castro’s apartment located in a Havana neighborhood plagued by regular power outages, he voiced his thoughts amid Cuba's most severe energy crisis in decades.
When asked about Fidel's possible reaction to his views, Sandro replied cautiously, "He was a person with principles. Everyone is who they are, of course, but he also respected others. That's just my perspective."
Critical of Cuban Leadership
In the same conversation, Sandro Castro, the grandson of Cuba's dictatorial founder, did not shy away from criticizing President Miguel Díaz-Canel. "In my opinion, he's not doing a good job. There are many things he should have addressed long ago that are now causing us harm," he remarked.
Despite having his own generator, which puts him in a better position than most Cubans, Sandro acknowledged the hardships faced by the Cuban people.
Contrasts and Realities
"We have to fight, as all Cubans say. It's tough, really tough... even for a Castro. You face countless challenges: one day there's no electricity, no water, goods don't arrive... it's very hard," he stated.
When questioned about why so many Cubans harbor resentment towards the Castro family, he offered a striking observation, especially given his heritage: "Most Cubans want capitalism, not communism. This has led to differences and, sadly, hatred."
With over 150,000 Instagram followers and ownership of nightlife venues in Vedado, Havana, Sandro Castro denied receiving any benefits from his famous surname: "My name is my name. I'm proud of it, naturally, but I don't see the help you're talking about. I'm just like any other citizen."
The Divide Between Lifestyle and Reality
However, his lifestyle, featuring luxury cars and exclusive parties, starkly contrasts with the reality he describes and what most Cubans experience.
By October 2025, Sandro had already distanced himself from his grandfather's ideology by posting on social media: "Revolutionary, yes. Communist, no. I respect my country and government."
The New York Times highlighted him on March 22, portraying him as "Fidel's grandson who mocks the regime from a position of privilege."
Once again, Sandro Castro reiterated, "Most Cubans want capitalism, not communism," underscoring the erosion of a system that even its founder's descendants no longer find convincing.
Understanding Sandro Castro's Perspective on Cuba
What are Sandro Castro's views on Fidel Castro's principles?
Sandro Castro respects his grandfather's principles, acknowledging Fidel as a person with strong beliefs who also respected others.
How does Sandro Castro view the current Cuban leadership?
He is critical of President Miguel Díaz-Canel, stating that the president has failed to address significant issues affecting the country.
What does Sandro Castro say about the Cuban people's preferences?
Sandro believes that most Cubans prefer capitalism over communism, which has led to differences and resentment towards the Castro family.