Cuban content creator Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, widely recognized on social media as Anna Bensi, reported on Wednesday that she has been summoned once again by the Revolutionary National Police (PNR). This comes merely two days after a public dispute with Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR).
Bensi shared the official summons on her Facebook account, indicating that she is required to appear at the PNR Unit in Habana del Este this Thursday at 10:00 AM to receive an "Official Warning."
Accompanying the document image, she wrote: "I HAVE BEEN SUMMONED FOR TOMORROW 10 AM. DOWN WITH THE DICTATORSHIP."
The notice, signed by First Lieutenant Julio Torres Suárez, identifies Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, a 21-year-old resident of Alamar, a municipality in Habana del Este.
The Role of 'Official Warnings' in Cuba
In Cuba, "official warnings" are documents issued by the Revolutionary National Police, notifying individuals about behaviors deemed potentially criminal or disruptive to the established order. Human rights organizations frequently criticize this method as a tool used against dissidents, independent journalists, and activists.
This recent summons follows a social media exchange between Bensi and Gerardo Hernández Nordelo. On Monday, the CDR leader hinted at the possibility of legal action against those accusing him of owning the small enterprise "El Mercadito."
"Communism is so flawed that anyone can earn (in dollars!) by spreading lies without any evidence and without fearing legal action…," Hernández wrote.
Bensi replied by questioning the lifestyle of the former Cuban intelligence agent, reiterating his alleged connection to the private enterprise.
International Spotlight and Support
Bensi is a member of the youth collective "Fuera de la Caja Cuba," established in January to share insights into Cuban life through social media, art, and civic initiatives. Her situation has gained international attention over recent months. In April, Amnesty International documented her case, and Mike Hammer, the head of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, met with her and other group members. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly expressed support for them.
The U.S. Embassy in Havana has stated that Bensi "has only expressed her ideas, faith, and aspirations as a Cuban who loves her country."
Understanding Cuban Police Procedures
What is an 'Official Warning' in Cuba?
In Cuba, an 'Official Warning' is a document issued by the Revolutionary National Police to inform individuals about behaviors considered potentially criminal or contrary to the established order.
Why was Anna Bensi summoned by the Cuban police?
Anna Bensi was summoned by the Cuban police for an 'Official Warning' following a public exchange with Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, where she questioned his alleged connections to a private business.
What role does the U.S. play in supporting Cuban activists like Anna Bensi?
The U.S. has shown support for Cuban activists like Anna Bensi through public declarations and diplomatic engagement, such as meetings with embassy officials and messages of support from U.S. leaders.