Cuban influencer Sandro Castro, grandson of former leader Fidel Castro, is facing heavy criticism for flaunting a luxury lifestyle on social media while ordinary Cubans endure worsening shortages of food, medicine, power, and fuel.
At 33, Castro has built a large online following, regularly sharing images and videos of upscale parties, expensive cigars, imported cars, and private flights.
His posts often contain jokes about daily struggles that millions in Cuba face, including blackouts and food scarcity.
Raised in the exclusive Punto Cero compound in Havana, he now embraces a lifestyle far removed from the revolutionary ideals of his grandfather.
In one video, he jokes about not being able to find chicken for his beer during a blackout, using slang and nicknames for popular Cuban items.
While some online users treat his posts with sarcasm or humor, many others see them as deeply out of touch.
In a country where many line up for hours to find basic supplies, the display of wealth from someone with ties to Cuba’s ruling family has caused frustration and resentment.
Historians and analysts have weighed in on the controversy.
One state-aligned historian criticized Sandro for ignoring the values of the revolution, while a well-known dissident noted that his public behavior highlights the growing divide between the ruling elite and ordinary citizens.
Despite having no official political role, Sandro Castro’s public presence has become symbolic of a new generation—one that many Cubans feel does not reflect their reality.
His posts continue to spark debate about privilege, image, and identity in a nation under severe economic strain.