In a recent Facebook post, Abel Prieto shared a cartoon depicting Anna Bensi as a mercenary linked to U.S. diplomat Mike Hammer. However, the former Minister of Culture faced a wave of backlash in response.
Comments such as "How low can you go?" and "What a disappointment, Abel" flooded the post, reflecting the widespread disapproval of Prieto's actions. The post, which garnered over 1,300 comments, featured both support for Bensi and criticism of those promoting the caricature.
"From our Paquito," Prieto noted as he shared the image, yet many users expressed skepticism. "I trust that girl's word more than any Cuban official," remarked one commenter. Another highlighted a recurring sentiment: "It's unbelievable how a young girl with a phone could drive them so mad."
Public Reaction and Official Response
Many comments suggested that the government's focus on Bensi was indicative of the impact of her criticisms. "It's amazing how a young girl and her mother keep them awake at night," one user noted. Another added, "It's incredible that a girl scares them so much."
Prieto's role as a cultural figure also came under fire. "It's embarrassing for a former Minister of Culture. Culture or lack thereof?" one person wrote. Others compared his literary work to the cartoon, suggesting neither holds much value.
Criticism and Defiance Amidst Controversy
The cartoon received mixed reactions, with responses like "Not funny," and "Is the joke delivered by Uber?" Others challenged Prieto to apply the same humor to higher powers: "Now draw one of the president and prime minister," implying a double standard in the freedom to criticize power.
While some comments targeted Bensi, accusing her of seeking money or a visa, many defended her and criticized Prieto. "Drawing people in fear doesn't fill the plate," one user argued, urging officials to address the critique rather than target the messenger.
The Provocation Behind the Mockery
The comments also touched on an incident during Mike Hammer's visit to Bensi's home on October 6, where a small group shouted slogans against him. Bensi's bold retorts during the protest, such as "You dropped the iron" and "Starving," were noted by supporters.
A commentator defended Bensi's right to host guests and criticized those who verbally attacked her outside her home. "Her response was provoked by those shouting at her," they explained. Another questioned, "Who is starving us? It's not poor Paquito, maybe it's Paquito's boss."
The cartoon followed Francisco Rodríguez Cruz, "Paquito de Cuba," joking about Bensi with a wig resembling her hair, suggesting the CIA posed a threat. This mockery came after Bensi and her mother, Caridad Silvente, were sentenced to two years of limited freedom for recording and publishing an encounter with a MININT agent.
This background fueled further backlash against Prieto's post: "These are the ones who say we must respect privacy." Questions arose about the double standards when Cuban TV shows faces and details of dissidents: "Is the law applied the same way when a state media outlet publishes?"
Understanding the Backlash Against Abel Prieto
Why did Abel Prieto's post receive criticism?
Prieto's post was criticized for mocking Anna Bensi, a young activist, and aligning her with foreign interests in a derogatory manner. Many saw this as an unjust attack, especially given Prieto's past as a cultural figure.
What was the public's reaction to the caricature shared by Prieto?
The public responded with a mix of criticism and support. While some defended Bensi and criticized Prieto, others mirrored the regime's rhetoric, accusing Bensi of ulterior motives.
How did the incident during Mike Hammer's visit influence public opinion?
The incident highlighted Bensi's defiance and the Cuban government's sensitivity to criticism. Her boldness in confronting protesters amplified her support among critics of the regime.