The Cuban playwright and activist Yunior García Aguilera has made it clear that he does not rejoice in the death of actress Corina Mestre—a staunch defender of the regime—and holds no grudges against her despite her actions against him.
Yunior shared a message on social media, omitting any mention of Corina's stance in 2021 when he organized a peaceful protest—the Civic March for Change scheduled for November 15 of that year—and she supported the government's denial of the permit for the demonstration.
According to the artist, their last encounter was "as declared enemies."
"It was tough. Despite that, I do not celebrate her death. I do not celebrate anyone's death. She was a talented actress, even though we were on opposite ends. I know she did many things against me, even after I left Cuba. And still, I hold no grudges," Yunior said on Instagram.
"May you find light, Corina, beyond our differences. And may those who admired and loved you find solace," he concluded.
Corina Mestre, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 69, had a long and fruitful career in theater, radio, film, and television, and also as a professor at the National School of Art (ENA). Alongside her significant acting career, she was an unwavering supporter of the government.
Corina Mestre's Political Stance and Legacy
In November 2021, she spoke out against the Civic March for Change, asserting that socialism in Cuba is irrevocable and that the entire population supports this political choice.
"How can anyone think it possible to allow a demonstration that is entirely against the system approved by more than 80 percent of the Cuban population?" she said at the time.
"It is impossible to grant permission for that because that demonstration is in full agreement with those who have been attacking us for over 60 years," she added.
This Sunday, the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) mourned the actress's passing, remembering her as a "fidelista, revolutionary, Martian, patriot" and "defender of Cuban culture."
"Always loyal to the MININT, of which she was a part and where she will live eternally in the hearts of her comrades. Corina forever," the ministry stated on Twitter.
Mestre was associated with the MININT from a very young age, as she recounted in a 2010 interview with the official Cuban radio website.
"I joined the Ministry of the Interior at 14, and while there, in 1972, I founded the amateur festivals at MININT. I worked there until 1980," she detailed.
Even the current leader Díaz-Canel expressed his condolences for her death, calling her a "loyal friend, collaborator, teacher, and patriot" in a tweet.
Understanding Yunior García and Corina Mestre's Conflict
In light of the recent developments, here are some questions and answers that provide more context on the conflict between Yunior García and Corina Mestre and its implications.
Why did Corina Mestre oppose Yunior García's Civic March for Change?
Corina Mestre opposed the Civic March for Change because she was a staunch supporter of the Cuban government and believed that socialism in Cuba is irrevocable. She saw the march as an act against the system approved by the majority of the Cuban population.
What was Yunior García's reaction to the death of Corina Mestre?
Yunior García expressed that he does not celebrate the death of Corina Mestre. Despite their differences and her actions against him, he holds no grudges and wished for her to find light beyond their differences.
What role did Corina Mestre play in the Cuban government?
Corina Mestre was a fervent supporter of the Cuban government. She was involved with the Ministry of the Interior from a young age and was known for her unwavering loyalty to the regime.