Laura María Gil, daughter of former Cuban Economy Minister Alejandro Gil Fernández, has voiced her reaction to the official announcement of her father's trial. In an audio message circulating on social media, she described the charges against him as a "complete manipulation."
Earlier, the People's Supreme Court revealed that the judicial proceedings are set to commence on Tuesday, November 11th at 9:30 a.m. The trial will be held in the State Security Offenses Chamber under strict confidentiality and behind closed doors. The Cuban Prosecutor's Office is seeking a life sentence for the former official for alleged espionage, among other serious accusations.
Laura María also reported apparent irregularities in her communications. "My WhatsApp has been restricted since this morning, I have poor connectivity, and many messages are left unanswered. I don't know if it's a coincidence or if someone tampered with my account," she speculated, hinting at possible censorship.
Despite these barriers, Laura María is determined to attend the trial with her brother, acknowledging the proceedings will not be open to the public. "I'll do everything I can to get in, even if it's just me. Nothing will change my belief that he is not a spy," she stated emphatically.
She further declared, "No matter what is said or what evidence is shown, I don't care. I've been involved in this matter for two years and am absolutely certain it's all a total manipulation."
The former minister's daughter concluded by asserting her intention to fight "in any way possible, within the limits allowed," while reiterating her firm belief that her father "is not a spy."
Call for a Public Trial
Earlier in November, Laura María publicly requested that her father's trial be held "open to the public" and broadcast live on Cuban television, appealing to the rights of free expression and transparency protected by the Constitution.
In that message, shared on her social media platforms, she urged the authorities to provide the public with "complete information" about the accusations and defended her family's right to speak out without facing retribution.
The case of Alejandro Gil Fernández, who was removed from office in February 2024 and subsequently subjected to a criminal investigation, has become one of the most sensitive issues within Cuba's recent political elite. The Prosecutor's Office charges him with espionage, embezzlement, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, influence peddling, and forgery of public documents, among other offenses.
FAQs on Alejandro Gil's Trial
What charges is Alejandro Gil Fernández facing?
Alejandro Gil Fernández is facing charges of espionage, embezzlement, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, influence peddling, and forgery of public documents.
Why is the trial of Alejandro Gil Fernández considered significant?
The trial is significant due to Alejandro Gil Fernández's role as a former high-ranking official, making it one of the most sensitive legal processes involving the Cuban political elite in recent times.
What are Laura María Gil's concerns about the trial?
Laura María Gil is concerned about the trial's closed-door nature and the manipulation of charges against her father. She also reported issues with her communications, hinting at possible censorship.