After controversies surrounding Miss Universe and the recent dismissal of Miss Argentina, a new scandal has emerged involving the Miss Universe Cuba organization. The situation has escalated to the point where the contest organizers were forced to address the matter concerning Marianela Ancheta, Miss Cuba 2024.
The controversy began when alleged comments criticizing the Cuban exile community, supposedly made by Ancheta, went viral.
These remarks appeared on an Instagram account using Ancheta's image but were not linked to her official profile. The account in question, @misscuba, shared posts supporting statements against Cuba's exile community.
A shaken Miss Cuba
The situation intensified after these comments were highlighted on the show of Alexander Otaola, a Cuban-American influencer based in Miami.
One of the comments shared read: "The real culprits for Cuba's current state ran away in a hurry. We were born into a ruined Cuba because they failed to defend it."
Miss Universe Cuba responds
In response, the Miss Universe Cuba organization issued an official statement on Instagram, firmly denying that the comments came from Marianela Ancheta. The statement clarified that the organization does not take responsibility for content shared by unauthorized sources.
The organization emphasized that Marianela Ancheta has only two official accounts: @marianelaancheta on Instagram and @anchetamarianela on TikTok. Any other accounts using her name or image are unauthorized and do not represent Miss Cuba 2024.
Additionally, the statement called for greater responsibility and ethics in sharing information. It urged the public to verify sources before spreading news, warning that any violations could result in legal action.
A controversial selection process
Ancheta's selection as Miss Cuba 2024 was not without criticism. The pageant, held in Miami, allowed participation from candidates born in Cuba or with Cuban parents in exile. This decision sparked mixed reactions both within Cuba and among the Cuban diaspora.
In Havana some opposed the idea of a Miss Cuba representative living abroad. Conversely, the Cuban exile community in the U.S. welcomed the decision.
Despite the controversy, after nearly 60 years without Cuban representation in Miss Universe, Marianela Ancheta made her debut on November 16 in Mexico City, drawing significant attention.
More than a model
Born in Ranchuelo, Villa Clara, Marianela Ancheta has shared her inspiring journey in several interviews. She emigrated to Mexico and later to the United States at age 13, crossing borders with her mother.
"Mexico holds a special place in my heart because I crossed the border with my mom," she recalled in a recent interview.
In addition to being a model, Ancheta is an entrepreneur. She is the founder of ARMA FACE Skincare, a brand specializing in skincare products.
She describes herself as brave, compassionate, and genuine—a reflection of her personal and professional journey.
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