Manuel "Manny" Morales, the head of Miami's Police Department, has expressed his readiness to spearhead a profound transformation of Cuba's security forces should a political shift occur on the island. He has even proposed himself as a candidate to lead the police in Havana under these circumstances.
"My greatest aspiration is to be part of the transition team and lead a comprehensive reform of the Cuban police force; I am fully prepared to assume the leadership in Havana or on a national level," Morales stated in an interview with Diario Las Américas.
Morales's proposal stems from the necessity to replace the current system of political control and repression with a civil oversight model grounded in human rights. This vision draws inspiration from the institutional framework of Miami's Police Department.
His aim is to initiate an institutional transformation that rebuilds public trust in authorities and dismantles the political role currently played by Cuba's security agencies. "I have the knowledge and determination to convert the current arm of authoritarianism into a democratic police institution that serves the people rather than an ideology," Morales emphasized.
Plan to Demilitarize Public Security
One of the pivotal elements of Morales's proposed reform is the demilitarization of public order, aimed at establishing a professional and decentralized police force. He claims his approach is based on standards applied in Miami, where, as he mentioned, the relationship between police and the community relies on civic cooperation and institutional accountability.
"It's time to replicate in our homeland the success and prosperity that Cubans have achieved in this great nation; what this group of immigrants accomplished in the United States is unprecedented, and now we must bring that excellence back to the island," Morales declared.
He explained that his proposal seeks to ensure that any potential transition not only involves political changes but also includes an institutional transformation that avoids power vacuums and guarantees public safety during the reestablishment of a democratic system.
To support his capability to lead such a transition, Morales highlighted his experience as a military police officer in the U.S. Army during Operation Just Cause in Panama in 1989, where he participated in training the new Panamanian Public Force following the overthrow of dictator Manuel Noriega. This background, he asserted, would enable him to contribute to reorganizing Cuba's security forces in a political change scenario.
Upcoming Retirement from Miami Police
Morales's statements come at a significant moment in his career. He recently announced his retirement from the Miami Police Department in October 2026, after more than three decades of service. He has led the institution since 2021, stepping into the role following the dismissal of Art Acevedo.
During his tenure, various sectors have acknowledged his role in stabilizing the police force and strengthening community relations. Under his leadership, the city also saw improvements in crime reduction, further solidifying his reputation as an influential figure within Miami's institutional framework.
However, his career has not been without political controversy. City Commissioner Ralph Rosado accused him of using his position to boost his public image in anticipation of a potential run for District 4 Commissioner in the 2027 elections, a possibility Morales has neither confirmed nor denied. For his part, Morales insists he is not engaging in political campaigning while in office.
His departure from the Police Department will initiate an institutional transition process. City Manager James Reyes indicated that the search for his successor will commence in July 2026, with the final selection requiring approval from Miami's City Commission.
With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, Morales is seen as a seasoned leader within the U.S. police system, a career he now places at the forefront of his proposal to take part in the potential reorganization of security institutions in a post-Castro Cuba.
International Pressure and Exile Support
Morales's initiative emerges amidst intense diplomatic and economic pressure from the U.S. administration, led by President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, aimed at fostering political change in Cuba. His proposal is also part of a broader set of initiatives promoted by the Cuban exile community.
Among these is the so-called "Liberation Agreement," signed this week by exile organizations, as well as Miami-Dade's Board of Commissioners' Resolution 11-A7, which demands Cuban American community involvement in Washington's decisions concerning Cuba's future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manny Morales's Proposal
What is Manny Morales's vision for reforming Cuba's police force?
Manny Morales envisions replacing Cuba's current system of political control with a civilian oversight model based on human rights, inspired by the Miami Police Department's structure.
Why does Manny Morales believe he is qualified to lead this transition?
He cites his experience as a U.S. Army military police officer during Operation Just Cause in Panama, where he helped train the new Panamanian Public Force, as evidence of his capability to reorganize security forces in a political shift scenario.