The Cuban government has initiated legal proceedings against two prominent Masonic leaders, accusing them of alleged currency trafficking. This marks another instance of the regime's crackdown on independent organizations. The Sovereign Grand Commander, José Ramón Viñas Alonso, announced via Facebook that he was summoned by the State Security and charged with currency trafficking after being questioned about the foreign travels of Masonic members and the source of their funds.
Viñas explained that the underlying issue likely stems from a unanimous decision by the Masonic Board, which involved exchanging $100 twice this year between members to cover urgent expenses related to a shelter they manage. Authorities claim the problem arises from these exchanges being conducted at an unofficial rate of 370 pesos, rather than the state-sanctioned rate of 120, classifying this as an economic crime.
"We've been told that currency trafficking is due to the exchanges not occurring through the bank, which is considered a crime punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison," Viñas reported. He also highlighted imposed precautionary measures such as restricted movement and travel bans. "We are not worried, as we have no legal infractions as citizens," he stated, emphasizing the situation's deeper motives beyond monetary concerns. "We understand the intent behind this, and while the outcome remains uncertain, we declare our innocence to our brethren."
Independent writer and journalist Ángel Santiesteban Prats corroborated on social media that both Viñas Alonso and Grand Master Kessel Juan Alberto Kessel Linares have been released, although legal proceedings are ongoing. Mason Sergio Rafael Vidal Águila also took to Facebook, accusing the Cuban regime of a "ruthless and shameless" attack on the Masonic fraternity as part of a broader strategy to dismantle institutional independence.
According to Vidal, Kessel Linares faces charges of "inciting criminal behavior" after publicly supporting fellow members in thwarting an "unprecedented violation" of Masonic governance. Despite a restraining order from the Grand National Masonic Temple, Kessel is accused of breaching this restriction by attending the temple on July 6 to fulfill his duties.
Regarding Viñas Alonso, Vidal, an economist and Mason, noted that he has been subjected to harassment for over a year, with the currency trafficking charge being a failed attempt to discredit those upholding the institution's autonomy. Vidal criticized the State Security's allocation of resources to pursue Masonic leaders amidst a national crisis, highlighting the irony of targeting Masonic figures while the country grapples with rampant drug issues and crime.
The message also underscores the historical role of Masonry in Cuba's struggle for freedom, citing how figures like Fidel Castro, Ramiro Valdés, and Abel Santamaría found support in Masonic lodges following the Moncada Barracks attack in 1953. It was a Mason, Lieutenant Pedro Sarría Tartabull, who famously saved Fidel's life with the phrase, "Ideas cannot be killed."
Vidal concluded by warning that the current attempt to control the internal structures of Cuban Masonry is not new but now happens openly with the backing of state institutions like the Ministry of Justice (MINJUS), whose officials are allegedly involved in the accusations. "When you are no longer here, we will still be," he asserted, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Masonic values over the regime's temporary presence.
Cuban Masonry is facing one of its most significant institutional crises amid escalating state persecution and control efforts. Dozens of Masons gathered outside the San Diego Lodge in Havana to reaffirm their organization's sovereignty after the Ministry of Justice nullified the election of the new Grand Master, Juan Alberto Kessell Linares, installing Lázaro Cuesta Valdés, a regime affiliate, instead.
Tensions escalated further when, amid chants of "Out!" and the singing of the Bayamo Anthem, Masons expelled Mayker Filema Duarte from the Grand Lodge of Cuba. The Cuban Masonic community, previously rocked in 2024 by a corruption scandal involving former Grand Master Mario Urquía Carreño, now faces another crisis. However, this time, the response has been one of unity, mobilization, and defense of its foundational principles.
Impacts of Legal Actions on Cuban Masonry
What are the charges against the Masonic leaders in Cuba?
The leaders are charged with currency trafficking and inciting criminal behavior due to unofficial currency exchanges and support for other members in governance disputes.
How has the Cuban government responded to Masonic activities?
The government has initiated legal actions against Masonic leaders, imposed travel restrictions, and attempted to control the organization's internal structures.
What historical role has Masonry played in Cuba?
Masonry has been pivotal in Cuba's fight for freedom, providing support to revolutionary figures and playing a significant role in the country's political history.