In a recent interview with Telemundo 51, María Victoria Gil, the sister of former Cuban Minister of Economy and Planning Alejandro Gil Fernández, stated that her brother has consistently denied all accusations against him, including espionage—one of the most severe charges under Cuba's Penal Code that can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Speaking from Tenerife, María Victoria, who is also a lawyer and former television presenter, recounted that the proceedings against Gil Fernández began in February 2024. At that time, he was removed from his position and subjected to an investigation by Cuba's Ministry of the Interior (MININT).
Legal Proceedings and Allegations
"My brother was relieved of his duties on February 2, and a month later, the evening news announced he would be investigated for serious errors. Since then, there has been complete silence," she explained.
Gil Fernández has been in provisional detention for over a year and a half, facing charges that include espionage, embezzlement, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, and forgery of public documents.
The Prosecutor's Office submitted the case to the People's Supreme Court on October 31, initiating a trial that María Victoria expects will occur before the year ends.
Closed-Door Trial and Concerns
María Victoria criticized the decision to hold the trial behind closed doors, attributing it to the Cuban regime's desire to suppress "uncomfortable truths."
"They have included the espionage charge to legally justify a closed trial. My brother knows things that many would prefer remain hidden," she alleged.
Despite her harsh criticism of her brother's economic policies—describing him as "the architect of the Tarea Ordenamiento and Cuba's economic disaster"—she argued that he should not serve as a scapegoat for the regime's failures.
"When Cuba is free and has a democratic government, he and the entire leadership should be accountable to the people, but he should not be judged now by those who oppress him," she insisted.
Call for International Support
The lawyer lamented the lack of judicial independence on the island: "In Cuba, there is no separation of powers. The State accuses, judges, and condemns. That life sentence has already been decided," she asserted.
She concluded by urging international support for a public and transparent trial, highlighting that her brother is represented by criminal lawyer Dr. Solar, although acknowledging that "little can be done against a political decision of such magnitude."
"I will fight for the truth even without hope. My brother is broken, but he deserves to defend himself before the Cuban people," she said emotionally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alejandro Gil's Case
What charges is Alejandro Gil facing?
Alejandro Gil is facing multiple charges including espionage, embezzlement, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, and forgery of public documents.
Why is the trial of Alejandro Gil being held behind closed doors?
The trial is closed to the public, allegedly to prevent "uncomfortable truths" from emerging, as part of the Cuban regime's strategy to control sensitive information.
Who is representing Alejandro Gil legally?
Alejandro Gil is represented by Dr. Solar, a criminal lawyer, although his ability to influence the outcome is limited by the political nature of the case.