The Pichy Boys have launched a fierce critique against the Cuban regime following news that it could strip citizenship from nationals residing abroad once the Citizenship Law is approved.
In a video shared on their Instagram account, the comedic duo accused the government of coming up with increasingly absurd ideas. "The communists invent every kind of nonsense just so people will talk about something other than how bad the country is, which they've destroyed," said an indignant Maikel Rodríguez.
"How the hell are you going to take my citizenship away from me if I was born there? That's a natural right; you can't change history. I can't be born twice," he emphasized.
Maikel pointed out that the government might take away citizens' passports, but not their citizenship, and accused Díaz-Canel of being illegally in power. "Who the hell are you to take away my citizenship? You're the first illegal one there; nobody voted for you at all. You're the first illegal; what citizenship are you going to take away when you're there because you all are dictators," he underscored.
This week, the reasons why the Cuban government could strip citizenship from residents abroad became known. These reasons are included in the Citizenship Law Project, which is yet to be approved but is expected to pass in July during the next session of the National Assembly.
According to the regulations, it is the "president" who decides if a Cuban should be deprived of their citizenship, for which a Presidential Decree must be issued. Chapter III, "Deprivation of Cuban Citizenship," states in Article 54 that Cubans cannot be deprived of their citizenship, except for legally established causes.
Article 55.1 then establishes two causes: one is enlisting in any armed organization with the aim of attacking the territorial integrity of the Cuban state, its citizens, and other residents. The second cause is "performing acts contrary to the high political, economic, and social interests of Cuba from abroad, provided that the relevant citizenship authority considers it so," a broad provision that could include any activity deemed a threat by the regime, such as opposition or political activism.
Understanding the Implications of the New Cuban Citizenship Law
Given the controversial nature of the proposed Citizenship Law, many questions arise. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
What is the new Citizenship Law in Cuba?
The new Citizenship Law in Cuba proposes that the government can strip citizenship from nationals residing abroad under certain conditions, which are outlined in the Citizenship Law Project.
Who has the authority to strip citizenship under the new law?
The president of Cuba has the authority to strip citizenship by issuing a Presidential Decree.
What are the grounds for losing citizenship under the proposed law?
There are two primary grounds: enlisting in an armed organization to attack the Cuban state or performing acts from abroad that are considered contrary to Cuba's political, economic, and social interests.