Cuban Masons from all regions gathered en masse at the Grand Lodge of Cuba in Havana on Sunday, demanding the removal of the current Grand Master, Mayker Filema Duarte. According to a video released by the independent outlet Cubanet, the Masons convened at the Lodge to call for an extraordinary session aimed at expelling Filema. This move came after Filema recently postponed the session of the High Masonic Chamber, the institution's legislative body, where elections for high-ranking positions were to be held.
This action, as reported by Cubanet, extended his "dictatorship" and perpetuated "illegality within the Institution." In response, the Masons decided to uphold justice. A decree obtained by the media outlet revealed that Filema Duarte claimed conditions were not met to resume the session that had been suspended on March 23.
Filema justified the suspension by stating it was a preventive measure against potential "scandals that might spill into public life" and further damage "the already tarnished image of our Institution." He had previously warned of "personal threats" against him and indicated that "vandalistic behavior with exposure by independent media" was being encouraged. In his view, these actions were "unbecoming" of Masons and aimed to discredit the institution.
Allegations of Infiltration by the Cuban Regime
Outraged Cuban netizens took to social media, asserting that the Cuban regime had infiltrated the Grand Lodge of Cuba. "Freemasonry in Cuba is infiltrated by the dictatorship," stated one individual. Another concurred, "Sadly, the Grand Lodge of Cuba is yet another independent institution infiltrated by the communist dictatorship."
Filema Duarte assumed the role of Grand Master following the resignation of Mario Urquía Carreño amid a scandal involving corruption and the embezzlement of thousands of dollars and over 4 million pesos from the Lodge. Despite the High Chamber setting a six-month term for Filema's position until general elections could be held, the Grand Master suspended the agreed session.
Cubanet disclosed that the Masons submitted documents and evidence to the Ministry of Justice to prove the illegality committed by Filema Duarte in refusing to hold elections. Nevertheless, Miriam García, the Director of Associations at MINJUS, disregarded the complaint and supported Filema Duarte's actions.
Understanding the Masonic Crisis in Cuba
Why are Cuban Masons demanding the removal of Mayker Filema Duarte?
Cuban Masons are demanding the removal of Mayker Filema Duarte due to his actions in suspending a crucial session meant for electing high-ranking positions, which they view as an extension of his "dictatorship" and illegal practices within the Masonic Institution.
How has the Cuban regime allegedly infiltrated the Grand Lodge?
There are claims from outraged citizens and Masons that the Cuban regime has infiltrated the Grand Lodge of Cuba, using its influence to disrupt the Lodge's independence and integrity.
What was the controversy surrounding Mario Urquía Carreño?
Mario Urquía Carreño resigned as Grand Master amid allegations of corruption and embezzlement involving thousands of dollars and over 4 million pesos from the Lodge's funds.