Cuban influencer and activist Alexander Otaola has called for a rally in Washington, D.C., to express support for President-elect Donald Trump's policies regarding Cuba. The gathering is slated for Tuesday, January 28, at Lafayette Square, just outside the White House, aiming to unite members of the Cuban exile community in the United States.
Otaola took to his account on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to promote what is being billed as a "historic gathering." In his announcement, the former Miami-Dade mayoral candidate stressed the importance of raising voices against human rights abuses on the island. "We demand the immediate release of all political prisoners in Cuba. Separated families, ruined lives... Enough is enough!" he wrote, underlining the urgency of the matter.
The activist further urged that Cuba be designated as a national security threat to the United States, arguing that the spread of communism poses a danger to freedoms in the region. "It's time to make our voices heard. Freedom is not negotiated; it is defended," he concluded.
During a recent broadcast of his YouTube show, El Mañanero, Otaola reiterated his call for the Washington demonstration. "Now it's time to flood Washington, shout loud and clear that we want Cuba declared a national security threat," Otaola stated, urging exiled Cubans to mobilize en masse.
Otaola also revealed that opposing groups, organized through platforms like WhatsApp, are planning counter-protests to overshadow the event. However, he downplayed these efforts, asserting that free Cubans and opponents of communism outnumber those who wish to maintain the island's current system.
In a broadcast filled with a defiant and optimistic tone, Otaola encouraged attendees to prepare for Washington's cold weather and assured that the event would demonstrate the Cuban exile community's commitment to their homeland's freedom. "We are going to fill Washington with people, with good Cubans, with families, entrepreneurs, hardworking people with love for their country," he emphasized.
He also made a direct appeal to President Trump, whom he considers pivotal in the fight against the Cuban regime. "We are Cubans and we give you the authority, as the majority, to take action," he stressed.
Otaola, a polarizing figure on social media, has been a consistent critic of the Cuban regime and a staunch supporter of the sanctions imposed during Trump's first term. According to the influencer, Trump's maximum pressure policies were crucial in weakening the Havana government and supporting the pro-democracy movement on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Otaola's Washington Rally
What is the purpose of Otaola's rally in Washington?
The rally aims to show support for Donald Trump's policies towards Cuba and to protest against human rights violations on the island.
When and where will the rally take place?
The rally is scheduled for January 28 at Lafayette Square, in front of the White House in Washington, D.C.
How has Alexander Otaola promoted the rally?
Otaola has used his platform on X (formerly Twitter) to announce and highlight the rally as a "historic gathering."
What challenges does the rally face?
There are plans for counter-protests organized by opposing groups, although Otaola believes that supporters of freedom and democracy will outnumber them.