Cuba musician says barred from state-run venues after singing about direct presidential vote

HAVANA – A well-known Cuban singer says he is being punished for going off message at a nationally televised concert-rally last week.

Robertico Carcasses says in a note published on his band’s Facebook page that he has been barred indefinitely from performing at state-run music venues.

Carcasses sang last week about his desire for direct presidential elections and more freedom of information. The improvised lyrics came during a concert organized to demand the return of several Cuban agents jailed in the United States.

Carcasses says the Culture Ministry told him the next day his performance was not in line with the purpose of the event, and his words only aided the enemy.

Reached by phone Monday, he said the Facebook post contained everything he intended to say publically about the matter.