Orlando Ernesto Pérez Núñez, who stepped in for Yusuam Palacios following Palacios' removal as the leader of the Martiano Youth Movement (MJM), has now settled in Kentucky, USA, after crossing the Mexican border. According to Martí Noticias, Pérez Núñez entered the United States on November 19th through the El Paso, Texas border, facilitated by the CBPOne program.
A representative from the Martiano Youth Movement confirmed to Martí Noticias that Pérez Núñez is no longer affiliated with the organization but refrained from disclosing the reasons behind his departure, expressing surprise at his relocation to the United States.
Hailing from Sancti Spíritus and holding a degree in Accounting and Finance, the former leader is attempting to maintain a low profile in his new surroundings and has removed all his social media accounts. His arrival in the U.S. has sparked outrage among the Cuban exile community.
"It is, at the very least, detestable and repugnant that a Communist Party official and staunch defender of the Cuban revolution, who always upheld totalitarian communist doctrines, is now living and enjoying all the freedoms and privileges offered by this country," wrote Alberto León, a Cuban-American resident in Kentucky, in a statement to Martí Noticias.
The MJM serves as a propaganda tool for the regime, disguised under the pretext of promoting the works and ideology of José Martí to the younger generations. Known for his grandiose and hollow rhetoric supporting the government, Pérez Núñez once declared in a 2023 event that Martí stands with Cubans "near the real trench where we fight."
"His thoughts urge us to once again counter every sign that harms the deepest core of the national soul," he emphasized at the time.
Yusuam Palacios, a well-known advocate for the Castro regime, was removed from his position as the head of the Martiano Youth Movement in January 2023 after serving for 12 years. Aylín Álvarez, the first secretary of the UJC, criticized him by stating, "There are spaces and resources within our organizations that are sometimes not fully utilized." The official press only noted that he was "naturally concluding his responsibilities."
Questions About Orlando Ernesto Pérez Núñez's Asylum in the U.S.
Why did Orlando Ernesto Pérez Núñez leave Cuba?
Orlando Ernesto Pérez Núñez left Cuba following his replacement of Yusuam Palacios as the leader of the Martiano Youth Movement. The reasons for his departure from the organization remain undisclosed.
How did Pérez Núñez enter the United States?
Pérez Núñez entered the United States through the El Paso, Texas border on November 19th, utilizing the CBPOne program.
What has been the reaction to Pérez Núñez's arrival in the U.S.?
His arrival has caused significant outrage among the Cuban exile community, who view his presence as contradictory to his previous role as a defender of the communist regime.