Amidst one of the most severe energy crises Cuba has faced in decades, influencer Cinthya Medrano García, known as La Cintumbare, has stirred controversy with a social media post perceived as mocking the dire situation of the Cuban people.
In a recent Instagram video shared by user yaciel_magno, the young influencer was seen celebrating with friends at a party in Havana, holding a can of beer and mocking the ongoing energy crisis, exclaiming, "There's no light in Cuba, but I have power!"
The video, clearly intended as a display of mockery and showmanship, was met with widespread criticism online. Many considered Medrano García’s behavior offensive and a blatant disregard for the plight of Cubans who suffered a massive blackout on Friday, March 14—the fourth in less than six months—which left millions without electricity for up to 48 hours.
This incident adds to the list of controversies surrounding the influencer in recent months. In stark contrast to the hardships most Cubans face, La Cintumbare has been spotted at high-profile social events. She was recently seen at a party in Havana with Sandro Castro at his bar, just a week after her deportation from the United States.
The event drew criticism on social media, with many users condemning such displays of opulence and closeness with the grandson of Fidel Castro as disrespectful to those suffering from the country's economic and energy crises.
Recently, she has also been promoting a controversial business—an adult content platform—which she claims is a source of income in Cuba. Rather than being affected by the backlash, La Cintumbare has defended her lifestyle and her stay on the island, claiming to be "the happiest deportee" and that she is "enjoying Havana."
As Cubans endure frequent blackouts and a severe economic crisis, La Cintumbare's exhibitionism has been branded by many as a mockery of the people's suffering. Social media users have reacted with harsh criticism, urging an end to the visibility and support of an influencer who openly ridicules prolonged blackouts affecting essential services like water supply and food preservation.
The conduct of public figures like La Cintumbare and Sandro Castro, who flaunt luxurious lifestyles amid widespread adversity, has sparked a debate about the social responsibility of influencers and public personalities in times of crisis. Many view such behavior as insensitive, further fueling the population's frustration and discontent. Others point out that the influencer’s actions highlight the profound inequalities and social tensions existing in the country.
Exploring the Social Impact of Influencers in Cuba's Energy Crisis
What controversy did La Cintumbare cause?
La Cintumbare sparked controversy by mocking Cuba's energy crisis in a social media post, which was seen as insensitive to the struggles faced by the Cuban population during widespread blackouts.
How did the public react to La Cintumbare's video?
The public reacted with widespread criticism, viewing her behavior as offensive and lacking empathy towards those affected by the energy crisis.
What has been the response to her lifestyle amidst the crisis?
La Cintumbare's lifestyle, especially her attendance at high-profile events and her business endeavors, has been criticized as a display of opulence and disrespect amidst a national crisis.
What broader debate has this incident sparked?
The incident has sparked a debate about the social responsibility of influencers and public figures during times of crisis, highlighting issues of inequality and insensitivity.