Juan Manuel Cao Engages with Amelia Calzadilla on the Launch of the Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party

Exiled Cuban journalist Juan Manuel Cao conducted an enlightening interview on Wednesday with activist Amelia Calzadilla to delve into the inception of the Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party (PLOC). This new political entity, introduced by Calzadilla last Sunday from her residence in Madrid, marks a significant step since her departure from Cuba in 2025, fleeing the oppressive regime.

Cao commenced the discussion by expressing his support for the initiative, stating, "I champion this not because I know or endorse you personally, but because it seems a progressive step to encourage political engagement, particularly among the youth." The full interview was shared on his social media account on X.

Throughout the conversation, Calzadilla addressed questions about the party's liberal nature, clarifying, "It's liberal in the European context," in response to Cao's query on whether the term was used in a European or American sense. In the U.S., the word typically aligns with a center-left ideology, socially progressive and supportive of government intervention in the economy.

A New Vision for Cuban Politics

The newly established party identifies itself as a center-right organization, drawing inspiration from the humanistic ideas of José Martí and advocating for free market policies. Its foundational principles are justice, dignity, and prosperity.

Calzadilla explained the choice of the term "orthodox" to remain true to original liberal trends, distinguishing it from historical ties to the Partido del Pueblo Cubano (Ortodoxo), founded by Eduardo Chibás in 1947. She emphasized her decision to form a political party, rather than a movement or foundation, to steer directly towards a democratic transition, under the motto, "A new path for Cuba. With principles. With freedom. With you."

From Activism to Political Aspiration

Calzadilla, who began her activism in 2022 by highlighting the severe gas shortages impacting 58 families in the Cerro neighborhood of Havana, admitted she never intended to enter politics. "I was pushed into opposition," she has stated, referencing the harassment, defamation, and state repression that thrust her into the public eye.

Currently, she serves as a member of the Council for Democratic Transition in Cuba and as the coordinator of Citizenship and Freedom, with aspirations of returning to Cuba to engage in parliamentary activities.

Reactions to the PLOC Announcement

The announcement of the PLOC sparked a wave of support from the Cuban diaspora, with membership requests pouring in and calls for Calzadilla to run for president.

Activist Saily González Velázquez expressed enthusiasm, stating, "Finally, a party that represents me. With Amelia Calzadilla, of course."

Comedian Ulises Toirac also responded positively, with a sarcastic jab at the regime, "It's ironic that 'the revolution trained her so well,'" suggesting that the regime's own actions molded Calzadilla into a vocal opponent.

However, not all feedback was positive. Official program 'Con Filo' hosts Michel Torres Corona and Gabriela Fernández Álvarez mocked the party's formation in a video, sarcastically announcing "their own political party" to ridicule the effort. Calzadilla quickly addressed this mockery publicly.

Summarizing her project's driving philosophy, Calzadilla echoed a sentiment Cao highlighted at the program's start: "It's not enough to denounce; we must envision the country to come."