Manuel Menéndez Castellanos, former secretary of the Communist Party in the province of Cienfuegos and former member of Fidel Castro's "coordination and support team," arrived at Miami International Airport on Thursday afternoon. The news was reported by journalist Mario J. Pentón, who witnessed the arrival of the former party leader.
Menéndez Castellanos, who reportedly arrived through family reunification, tried to remain unnoticed by wearing a cap, a face mask, and sunglasses. He also arrived in a wheelchair. His own family did not recognize him at first, and it was he who greeted them with "good afternoon" to announce his presence.
When journalist Mario J. Pentón identified himself to the former official, Menéndez Castellanos tried to cover his face and stated, "I'm going home." His family attempted to shield him and declined to make any statements.
Menéndez Castellanos has been working for the Cuban regime since 1972. He initially joined the Central de Trabajadores de Cuba (CTC) and was later promoted to First Secretary of the Communist Party in Cienfuegos, a position he held from 1993 to 2003. He also served as a deputy to the National Assembly for several years and represented the regime in international events such as the Congress of the Communist Party of Venezuela and the 10th Anniversary of the Unification of Yemen.
Although the entry of some former officials or their family members into the United States has been blocked, the list of those who have successfully entered is also growing.
Among those who have entered is Arelys Casañola Quintana, former president of the Municipal Assembly of People’s Power of the Isla de la Juventud, who settled in Kentucky after seeking asylum in April this year at the southern border via the CBPOne application.
Two nieces of Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero have also entered the United States, one through the border, where she sought asylum, and the other through the humanitarian parole program. Meanwhile, Melody González Pedraza, a judge from Villa Clara linked to the trials of July 11 protesters, attempted to enter via humanitarian parole but was denied. She sought political asylum and is currently detained awaiting a judicial decision.
Among those who were prevented from entering are Liván Fuentes Álvarez, former president of the Municipal Assembly of People’s Power of the Isla de la Juventud, and a son of Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero.
Frequently Asked Questions about Former Cuban Officials in the U.S.
Given the arrival of former Cuban officials in the United States, several questions arise regarding their entry, asylum applications, and the conditions under which they can enter the country. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
How did Manuel Menéndez Castellanos enter the United States?
Manuel Menéndez Castellanos reportedly entered the United States through family reunification.
What positions did Menéndez Castellanos hold in Cuba?
He served as the First Secretary of the Communist Party in Cienfuegos and was a deputy to the National Assembly. He also represented the Cuban regime in international events.
Who else has entered the United States from Cuba recently?
Recent entrants include Arelys Casañola Quintana, former president of the Municipal Assembly of People’s Power of the Isla de la Juventud, and two nieces of Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero.
What happened to Melody González Pedraza?
She was denied entry via humanitarian parole and is currently detained while awaiting a judicial decision on her political asylum request.