Cuban content creator and activist David Espinosa has publicly responded to the pro-government television program "Con Filo" after being targeted alongside other Christian activists. The show labeled them as part of a "domestic, stateless, and immoral counterrevolution."
In a Facebook post, Espinosa addressed host Michel Torres Corona, who accused them of having a "permanent romance with U.S. diplomats and religious fundamentalism."
"The only 'religious fundamentalism' I see here is yours and that of those who use their positions of power and national media to criticize, mock, and target us without even allowing us the chance to respond," the pastor retorted.
Responding to criticism over his participation in events at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Espinosa stated, "Yes, we've attended some events to which we've been invited by the American Embassy, much like you frequently visit the 'Friendship House' on Fridays for activities organized by the Cuban government and its various bodies. They provide food as well."
Targeting Activists
The "Con Filo" segment also targeted activist Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, known as Anna Bensi. The program framed her situation as a regular legal matter rather than a case of political persecution.
On October 1, the People's Municipal Court of Eastern Havana sentenced Bensi and her mother, Caridad Silvente Laffita, to two years of restricted freedom for recording and sharing on social media a visit by a Ministry of the Interior (MININT) officer to their Alamar home.
Authorities applied Article 393 of the Penal Code, concerning acts against personal privacy. The independent legal organization Cubalex has argued that this provision should not be used against citizens who record public officials performing their duties.
Highlighting Other Incidents
Espinosa also pointed out the situation of Pastor Rolando Fidel Pérez Lora, known as "Pregonero de Cristo," who was detained on October 1 while heading to court to support Bensi. This marked his third detention this year.
The activist recalled an incident on July 2 in Alamar, where, according to his account, a National Revolutionary Police officer told them they could do "whatever they wanted" with the law.
In his response, Espinosa mentioned Sandro Castro, Fidel Castro's grandson, alleging—without providing evidence—that he was seen "associating with people linked to the drug world."
In September 2025, Sandro Castro stirred controversy with a video showing white powder and a rolled-up bill, though those images alone do not confirm the nature of the substance.
Continuing Harassment
Espinosa has repeatedly accused Cuban authorities of harassment. On October 1, he was detained while trying to attend Bensi's trial and has faced at least five summonses from the MININT.
In April 2026, ETECSA cut his phone line along with those of his wife and Bensi's family.
"Mockery, labels, and smear campaigns won't silence us. The Church of Christ doesn't need earthly permission to proclaim the truth, defend the oppressed, and call out sin by name," he declared.
"You may try to silence us, defame us, point fingers at us. But as long as Christ reigns, the truth will continue to speak," Espinosa concluded.
Key Questions About Cuban Activism and Government Response
What accusations did "Con Filo" make against David Espinosa?
"Con Filo" accused David Espinosa and other activists of being part of a "domestic, stateless, and immoral counterrevolution" and maintaining a close relationship with U.S. diplomats and religious fundamentalism.
What legal actions were taken against Anna Bensi?
Anna Bensi and her mother were sentenced to two years of restricted freedom for recording and sharing on social media a visit by a Ministry of the Interior officer, based on Article 393 of the Penal Code.
What is the role of Cubalex in this context?
Cubalex is an independent legal organization that argues against the use of Article 393 of the Penal Code to penalize citizens for recording public officials in the performance of their duties.