On Wednesday, Cuban nun Sister Nadieska Almeida voiced her support for Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, known as Anna Bensi, and her mother, Caridad Silvente, as they face an upcoming trial scheduled for Thursday, October 1st. She urged Christians to join them both in prayer and with their physical presence.
The message, titled "Christians in Communion," was shared by Cuban priest Alberto Reyes. In her statement, Almeida described the trial as "unjust" and called for visible support for the mother and daughter.
"It's about BEING THERE, SUPPORTING, ACCOMPANYING, making our unity and full support visible for those who have placed their trust in the good God who always has the final say," she wrote.
The nun further expressed her solidarity as a Catholic and a consecrated person, saying, "I assure you of my prayers and publicly admire your courage and integrity."
The statement comes just hours before Anna Bensi and her mother are set to appear in court on October 1st, following a postponed hearing initially scheduled for September 17th. Both women remain under house arrest and are prohibited from leaving the country.
They stand accused of "acts against personal and family privacy" after recording and posting on social media the visit of Ministry of the Interior agents who came to their home to deliver a State Security summons.
The case began in March when Cubalex legally challenged the charges, arguing that filming public officials performing their duties is a citizen's right. The organization also pointed out that the alleged crime required a direct complaint from the affected individual.
The case was initially dismissed based on this defense, led by attorney Roberto Ortega Ortiz, but was reopened in July after MININT sub-officer Yoel Leodán Rabaza Ramos filed a personal complaint.
According to Bensi, the agent claims to have been offended by comments made after the video was released and demands that the mother and daughter record a public apology.
Additionally, the complainant's lawyer is seeking a two-year restriction of freedom for each woman.
As the trial approaches, Anna Bensi has affirmed her commitment to continue her online postings. "I will not be silenced," she declared this week, asserting she would record and share the video again if given the chance.
Key Questions about Anna Bensi's Legal Battle
What charges are Anna Bensi and her mother facing?
Anna Bensi and her mother are charged with "acts against personal and family privacy" for recording and sharing a video of Ministry of the Interior agents.
Why was the case against Anna Bensi initially dismissed?
The case was initially dismissed because Cubalex argued that filming public officials is a right and the alleged crime required a direct complaint from the person affected, which was not initially filed.
What is the potential penalty if Anna Bensi and her mother are convicted?
If convicted, Anna Bensi and her mother could face a two-year restriction of freedom, as requested by the complainant's lawyer.