Recent remarks by General Raúl Castro, in which he declared himself "still young," have triggered a wave of reactions on social media. Especially among CiberCuba's Facebook followers, these comments have been met with irony, skepticism, and sharp criticism.
The responses, largely dripping with sarcasm, mock the former Cuban leader's claim, comparing him to ancient historical figures like Tutankhamun or Methuselah. "Yes, he's as young as Tutankhamun," quipped one user, while another joked, "Compared to Methuselah, he's a baby."
Some readers pointed to the longevity of Cuba's regime leaders as indicative of the level of privileges and medical care they've received, contrasting this with the hardship faced by the majority of the Cuban population. "Of course, if you have everything you've taken from the people," one internet user remarked. Another added, "He has all the conditions, comforts, nutrition... everything an elderly person should have, unlike the poverty and hardship in which the vast majority of Cuba's aging population lives."
Religious aspects also emerged in some commentators' reactions. "You were blessed, but you still need forgiveness and grace, which is only granted by divine mercy and repentance for your sins," a Christian wrote. Meanwhile, another Cuban was more blunt: "No one dies so easily, you have to pay first."
The critiques also referenced Castro's physical decline and potential dependence on costly medical treatments. "You're just a hop away, one lemonade from a flatline," a CiberCuba commenter wrote, to which another replied, "They'll probably cryogenically preserve him."
There were also jokes about his apparent immortality: "These degenerates last 100 years," a Cuban said, referring to the longevity of the Castro leadership.
The skepticism that his departure from power would bring real change to Cuba was another frequent theme in the comments. "The misfortune of the people is the people themselves. When he dies, everything will remain the same or worse. Because those he trained are worse," a Cuban woman expressed. This sentiment was shared by many who view the island's political dynamics as a continuation of the same repressive and impoverishing model.
Lastly, some comments focused on what is perceived as Raúl Castro's mental decline. "It's sad that he's no longer in his right mind and that due to age, he only says incoherent and unimportant things," a Facebook user pointed out. Another was more sarcastic: "No one doubts it, you're a child. You don't even know what you're saying, any minute now you'll be shouting 'Patria y Vida.'
The reactions on social media reflect a deep-seated rejection of Raúl Castro and his political legacy. For many Cubans, his assertion of youth is nothing more than a mockery, a statement that disregards the reality of an impoverished nation without hope, under the same system he helped solidify.
Public Sentiment on Raúl Castro's Remarks
Why did Raúl Castro's claim of youth cause such a stir?
His claim was met with sarcasm and criticism because it seemed disconnected from the reality of most Cubans' lives, highlighting the privilege he enjoys compared to the general population.
What are some of the criticisms Cubans have towards Raúl Castro?
Cubans criticize his longevity and privilege, his detachment from the struggles of ordinary people, and the lack of change his leadership has brought to the country.
How do Cubans view the political situation in their country?
Many Cubans feel that the political situation remains stagnant, with no real change expected, as the current leaders continue to follow the same repressive model established by the Castros.