Diego Suárez, co-founder of the Cuban American National Foundation (CANF) and a pivotal figure in the historical Cuban exile community, has made a fervent call to open the gates of Cuba's political prison and allow Cubans the freedom to travel without needing authorization to return to or leave their own country.
Suárez, who was awarded the Herencia 2026 prize on Saturday, June 21, in Miami and is set to celebrate his 100th birthday on November 11, shared his thoughts with Tania Costa during an interview for CiberCuba.
"Let the Cuban people move freely without having to seek permission to return to or leave their homeland," declared the seasoned activist.
He compared this freedom of movement to the liberties enjoyed in democracies worldwide: "People come and go just like we do in the United States or in any free country with representative democracy. This is what we desire."
New Migration Law: A Step Backward
The demand comes at a particularly crucial time. In May, the Cuban regime enacted a new Migration Law that intensifies restrictions on exiting and entering the country. It outlines ten reasons to deny exit permits, including "National Security and Defense," and expands the grounds for refusing reentry, citing "hostile actions against the political system" as a basis for blocking even the return of Cuban citizens.
Historical Betrayal and Reflections
During the same interview, Suárez reflected on the historical betrayal by the July 26 Movement and described Fidel Castro as both an "excellent artist" and a "fraud" who skillfully sold his promises with persuasive rhetoric.
"What Fidel Castro proclaimed with tremendous fervor, and the people of Cuba... 99.99% of Cuba's population," Suárez recalled, clarifying that he belonged to the small fraction that didn't support him "because I knew him."
Suárez also recounted one of the most painful episodes of the revolutionary process: after Batista's departure, the high command of the constitutional Cuban army decided to support the revolutionary army's promise-keeping.
"What they did was dissolve the constitutional army," he remarked, summarizing the betrayal that marked the onset of dictatorship.
Personal Reflections and Hope for the Future
The interview also featured a personal moment. Host Tania Costa read a live message from Florita, Suárez's niece and goddaughter, describing him as "a living legend of the American dream, an exceptional father, uncle, businessman, and unmatched patriot."
Suárez responded emotionally, recalling his childhood: "When we were orphans and still children, there were nine of us siblings, four sisters, and five brothers. Only one sister remains."
Having spent over 67 years in exile, the activist supports the belief that the Helms-Burton Act and the 1940 Constitution contain all the necessary frameworks for transitioning and rebuilding the Cuban republic without the need for new plans.
In his acceptance speech for the Herencia 2026 award, Suárez concluded with a message of optimism: "We are very close. The winds are blowing in our favor."
Cuba's Political Climate and Migration Laws
What is the current status of Cuba's Migration Law?
Cuba's new Migration Law, enacted in May, imposes stricter controls on citizens' ability to enter and exit the country, specifying ten reasons to deny exit permits and expanding the grounds for refusing reentry based on perceived threats to the political system.
Why does Diego Suárez oppose the current Cuban regime?
Diego Suárez criticizes the Cuban regime for its oppressive policies and lack of freedom, advocating for unrestricted movement for Cuban citizens and reflecting on the historical betrayals and false promises of the revolutionary government.
How does Suárez view Fidel Castro's leadership?
Suárez views Fidel Castro as a "fraud" who was able to manipulate public opinion with his charismatic speech, leading to a betrayal of the Cuban people's trust and the establishment of a dictatorial regime.