by Lorenzo Canizares
4/2/26
CNN’s interview with Sandro Castro (Fidel Castro’s grandson) deserves a detailed analysis, since what Sandro said must be taken seriously. Let me start by clarifying, for those who don’t know me, that I am a socialist. But like other good socialists, I believe in freedom of thought. When Sandro says he is a capitalist, he is fully within his rights to say so. Especially when he makes it clear that he believes in capitalism with sovereignty. Of course, we must ask Sandro what he means by capitalism—not to mock him, but to understand what level of capital accumulation he is referring to.
Let’s keep in mind that the use of the market economy by socialist countries, such as China and Vietnam, has led those countries to an impressive economic takeoff. China, which 50 years ago was quite poor, will soon be—if it isn’t already—the world’s leading economy. Vietnam, despite a devastating and genocidal war just a few decades ago, is enjoying flourishing growth in the standard of living of its citizens.
Now, when I mention the economic progress of these countries, let us not dismiss as inconsequential the fact that this progress was achieved under the guidance of the communist parties of their respective governments. The important point here is that these two parties, through their political oversight, minimize the potential for corruption and maintain their respective economies for the benefit of their respective peoples.
Today, April 1, 2026, a prominent article in the Miami Herald announces that Cuban businesspeople are preparing to invest in Cuba. That is great news that I hope bears fruit, as this would be of great help to the economic takeoff Cuba could experience if investment flows in and it breaks free from the chains that restrict it due to the blockade.
I cannot conclude this essay without mentioning my disagreement with Sandro regarding his assessment of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. In my humble opinion, Cuba is surviving these difficult times thanks to Miguel Díaz-Canel and the confidence he inspires among the Cuban people that he is doing everything possible to resolve the problems facing the nation.
Díaz-Canel also inspires confidence in nations that stand in solidarity with Cuba. A simple and honest man who is the antithesis of Donald Trump. An intelligent and judicious man who quickly realized the need to develop COVID vaccines, saving hundreds of thousands of lives in Cuba and other countries.
In conclusion, Sandro Castro has done the nation a favor by putting his opinion on the table. Hopefully, we can take advantage of this opportunity and benefit from the collaboration of many other Cubans in the nation’s economic development.
