Cuban Journalist Criticizes Alejandro Gil's Daughter for Lack of Empathy

Cuban independent journalist José Luis Tan Estrada has harshly criticized Laura María Gil González, the daughter of former Cuban Economy Minister Alejandro Gil. This comes after she called for transparency and a public trial for her father, who faces accusations of espionage, embezzlement, bribery, money laundering, and other offenses.

While Tan Estrada acknowledges Laura's right to defend her father, he takes issue with her statements' tone and content, which he believes are disconnected from the Cuban people’s historical suffering.

"I can't feel empathy for Alejandro Gil's daughter, and even less for him. It's understandable that she's defending her father—it's her right. Yet, her statements fail to point out the real culprits, which extend beyond her father to the system he was part of," the journalist wrote in a Facebook post.

The Role of Alejandro Gil in the Economic System

Tan Estrada emphasized that the former Economy Minister was not a victim of the system but one of its most committed executors. He highlighted Gil’s role in implementing impoverishing policies while enjoying power and privilege: "Alejandro Gil was a key player in the machinery that enforced economic measures that impoverished millions, while he and other high-ranking officials enjoyed privileges and perks," he noted.

"He was part of a model that punished dissent, manipulated information, and silenced those who dared to question the established order," Tan Estrada added.

Inconsistent Appeals for Transparency

Thus, Tan Estrada finds Laura Gil's appeal to principles of transparency and due process not only insufficient but morally inconsistent. "Today, his daughter appeals to the understanding of the same people her father helped oppress. She speaks of transparency, due process, and respect, but in her statement... there's not a single word of empathy for the Cubans who have been condemned, defamed, or disappeared for demanding the very same," he asserted.

The journalist criticized the lack of self-awareness, acknowledgment of privilege, or genuine distancing from the system that benefited her in Laura’s remarks. "Only the surprise of someone experiencing for the first time the arbitrariness of a system they once defended," he remarked.

"She didn't consider the people she now seeks support from when she enjoyed all the perks derived from her father's power, while the majority survived amidst scarcity and hunger," Tan Estrada added.

Broader Critique of Power Dynamics

The journalist's critique extends to a broader observation about those close to power now facing repression from a regime they once supported: "Those who remained silent when power attacked others are now demanding the freedom and transparency they once denied."

He concludes with a reflection summarizing his stance: "Perhaps now they understand—from personal experience—what it means to live under a regime that doesn't respect even its most loyal servants."

Reactions and the Alejandro Gil Case

Laura María Gil's statements did not go unnoticed. Her demand—expressed through three social media posts—called for an "open doors" trial, invoked constitutional articles on freedom of expression, and sought clarity on the countries and events involved in the accusations against her father.

Cuban actor and playwright Yunior García Aguilera was among the first to react, interpreting the message as a "desperate and brave" gesture, albeit expressed in a coded language typical of those living under authoritarian regimes.

In contrast to Tan Estrada's view, García analyzed Laura María Gil's discourse as an example of the "language of feigned obedience," a form of expression that subtly conveys dissent without directly confronting power but speaks to the people.

A Politically Charged Context

The case against Alejandro Gil unfolds at a time of high political sensitivity. Authorities accuse him of multiple economic crimes, and according to his sister, María Victoria Gil, a life sentence is even being considered.

María Victoria Gil was also firm: "If he has betrayed his principles, he deserves the full weight of the law."

Meanwhile, Communist Party-affiliated social media has promoted the hashtag #CeroImpunidad, distancing themselves from any hint of clemency towards fallen ex-officials.