Laura María Gil González, daughter of Alejandro Gil Fernández, the former Minister of Economy and Planning now facing charges from the Cuban Prosecutor's Office, has taken a firm public stance. She declared that her father "remains steadfast in his defense and will not acknowledge any alleged crimes" unless they are "properly substantiated."
In a statement shared on social media, Laura María called for utmost transparency throughout the proceedings. She emphasized the importance of freedom of expression and the protection of honor, referencing articles 54 and 48 of the Cuban Constitution. Additionally, she urged that the public be given clear access to the evidence supporting the charges without any secrecy.
Previously silent due to her family’s allegiance to the nation's image and the desire to prevent “public unrest or international conflict,” Laura María now contends that official information has been lacking, leaving "loose ends" that fuel speculation.
She believes the public deserves clarity regarding the alleged espionage activities, questioning: what actions were taken, for which countries, through what communication channels, what was received in exchange, where the supposed meetings took place, whose orders were followed, what information was disclosed, and what evidence supports these claims, including the potential alias of the accused.
Expressing gratitude for the mention of espionage, she stated, "This has been the cornerstone of the investigation, but I believe the public would appreciate a broader explanation with more details."
In this context, she demands an open trial broadcast live on national television and Cubavisión Internacional, with access for both official and independent media, as well as foreign outlets.
Laura María insists this demand is shared by her father "from day one," expressing confidence that "the Cuban people will be involved in the trial" and that his defense will be "properly communicated."
She emphasizes that her post does not incite violence, disclose state secrets, or show disrespect towards the institutions—such as the Ministry of the Interior, Comptroller's Office, Prosecutor's Office, and Presidency—involved in the process. She warns that any retaliation against her or her loved ones would be "entirely illegal" and a violation of their constitutional rights.
Furthermore, she calls on the governments allegedly involved in the investigated actions to make an official statement, asserting that this is a "very serious" accusation that transcends domestic politics and could become an international case.
Her message concludes with a reiteration of her aim for transparency to be "brought to its fullest extent," in respect to the public and for her family’s right, including Gil’s right, to defend their honor and narrative of the events.
Corruption Scandal Engulfs Gil
The General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic announced on Friday that it has pursued public criminal action against Alejandro Miguel Gil Fernández—who previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Planning—and other accused individuals, following the completion of a criminal investigation by the Ministry of the Interior.
The actions against the former deputy prime minister and economy minister were presented to the relevant court, with requests for imprisonment "in accordance with the acts committed."
The Public Ministry specified that the request for criminal responsibility includes a wide range of offenses: espionage, acts detrimental to economic activity or contracts, embezzlement, bribery, forgery of public documents, tax evasion, influence peddling, money laundering, violation of classified document protection norms, and theft or damage to documents or other items under official custody.
The brief official communication provided no further details on the judicial proceedings beyond the presentation of the actions and the request for prison sentences for all the accused.
Key Questions on Alejandro Gil's Legal Battle
What charges is Alejandro Gil facing?
Alejandro Gil is facing a range of charges including espionage, acts harmful to economic activities, embezzlement, bribery, forgery of public documents, tax evasion, influence peddling, money laundering, violation of classified document protection norms, and theft or damage of official documents.
What does Laura María Gil González demand regarding the trial?
Laura María Gil González demands an open trial with live broadcasts on national television, access for both official and independent media, as well as foreign outlets, to ensure transparency and public involvement.
Why is the alleged espionage significant in this case?
The alleged espionage is significant because it forms the core of the investigation and raises questions about the actions taken, the countries involved, the communication channels used, and the information exchanged, which could have international implications.