Lenier Mesa continues to face skepticism from the Cuban exile community regarding his political stance on Cuba's dictatorship. During a performance in Naples, Florida last weekend, the singer and songwriter made a bold appeal for freedom in Cuba, vocally opposing President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez from the stage.
"All the Cubans who want a free Cuba, raise your hands up high. When I say Díaz-Canel, you say...," Mesa prompted the audience, who responded in unison with a common insult directed at the Cuban leader. While his stance might resonate with exiles, many who viewed the video labeled him as insincere and hypocritical, recalling his attendance at the Cayo Santa María Festival in Cuba, an event backed by the regime.
Critics remarked, "Mission accomplished, they forgot about the Cayo Santa María Festival"; "It's a trend now, if you don't speak against the government, you're silenced quickly. They're sheep in Cuba and sheep in Miami"; "What a shameless person Lenier is"; "And tomorrow he'll be in Varadero as if nothing happened"; "Whatever family he had there is gone, forget it, he's never fooled anyone, it's all disgusting, always convenient"; "This jerk is mocking the suffering of an entire nation"; "What's the name of the play?"; "None of these people have credibility in their words and actions. After enjoying the luxuries of communism, they now criticize from afar"; "Double standards... you see them all sending remittances, renting cars, partying in Cuba, and staying in Varadero hotels," were some of the comments shared by Cubans alongside the video posted on Instagram by Un Martí To Durako.
Lenier Mesa's Political Stance and Public Reaction
Why did Lenier Mesa's statements at his concert cause controversy?
Mesa's statements were perceived as hypocritical by some because he previously attended an event in Cuba supported by the regime, leading to doubts about his sincerity.
What was the audience's reaction to Mesa's comments during the concert?
The audience responded enthusiastically to Mesa's call for freedom, participating in a chant against President Díaz-Canel.
What criticisms did Lenier Mesa face after the concert?
Critics accused Mesa of being insincere and having double standards, pointing out his previous participation in events in Cuba and questioning his true commitment to the cause.