In a recent social media video, Cuban influencer Flor de Cuba unleashed a barrage of criticism against host Alexander Otaola, accusing him of benefiting from a double standard she believes is prevalent among some Cubans in exile. "They label anyone with a photo alongside figures associated with the government as a communist. Yet, Otaola has pictures with many such individuals, including attending concerts by Los Van Van and Pablo Milanés, and with others linked to the government, like his grandmother, who was a communist. But no one judges him," Flor de Cuba declared, directly addressing the host.
The influencer seized the opportunity to use the popular social media trend "We hear but do not judge" to highlight what she sees as hypocritical behavior among some Cubans in the United States. "We hear but do not judge: Cuban edition in America," she said sarcastically, critiquing attitudes she believes have been carried from Cuba to the diaspora. "They leave communism, but communism never leaves them," she pointed out.
Flor de Cuba also criticized the lack of empathy among some of her compatriots abroad, suggesting that success by those who remain on the island is often met with suspicion. "They can't stand to see someone in Cuba succeed without immediately assuming they're friends with the government or doing something illegal," she commented in the video.
The video sparked a wave of reactions on social media, reigniting the controversy between Flor de Cuba and Alex Otaola. It's worth noting that the influencer has previously faced criticism for a photo with Sandro Castro, the grandson of the late Fidel Castro, an incident her detractors use to question her stance.
This latest attack on Otaola comes just days after she dedicated another video to him on social media. Flor de Cuba dramatically compared the host to the "coldness of snow," simulating a symbolic journey into Otaola's "heart," claiming to find no feelings there, and concluded her performance with a shout in a deserted street, which she explained was meant to illustrate what she perceives as a lack of humanity in the broadcaster.
The clash between the two has deep roots and has escalated in recent months. Alex Otaola has publicly questioned Flor's immigration status in the United States, where she resides on a tourist visa and has expressed her intention to stay. Additionally, he has linked the influencer to controversial figures in the Cuban scene, accusations that Flor dismisses as manipulative while defending her independence.
Flor de Cuba and Alexander Otaola Feud: Key Questions
What are the main accusations Flor de Cuba makes against Alexander Otaola?
Flor de Cuba accuses Alexander Otaola of benefiting from a double standard, where he is not judged for having photos with figures linked to the Cuban government, unlike others who face criticism for similar associations.
How did Flor de Cuba use social media trends to criticize Cuban attitudes?
Flor de Cuba used the trend "We hear but do not judge" to sarcastically highlight what she perceives as hypocritical behavior among some Cuban exiles in the United States.
What previous controversies have fueled the feud between Flor de Cuba and Otaola?
The feud has been fueled by past criticisms of Flor de Cuba for a photo with Sandro Castro and Otaola's questioning of her immigration status and links to controversial figures.