The Municipal Court of Matanzas unexpectedly postponed the trial of Cuban activists Alina Bárbara López Hernández and Jenny Pantoja Torres on Thursday, offering no explanation for the delay. The trial, initially set for January 30, was called off according to a social media post by Pantoja, which also included a judicial document confirming the suspension.
Pantoja revealed that she had received the official court summons on Monday afternoon, indicating that both activists would be facing trial for the alleged crime of assault. However, neither her lawyer nor López Hernández had been informed of the proceedings.
"This raises some questions, especially since the lawyer was at the court that morning and was told nothing," Pantoja noted. She expressed skepticism about why the summons reached her home in Havana before reaching the lawyer or López, who live in the same jurisdiction.
Pantoja recounted traveling with her husband to Matanzas to ensure her presence at the court by 9 a.m., only to learn hours before the hearing that the trial had been cancelled by the tribunal's order, as relayed by their lawyer.
The official document, dated January 29 and signed by presiding judge Ysenia Rodríguez Vázquez, confirms the decision, stating that the court "cannot hold the oral proceedings on the previously scheduled date" and thus cancels the scheduled trial indefinitely.
The document cites an ongoing "reorganization of judicial activities" within the Municipal People's Court of Matanzas as the reason, without specifying any concrete causes or setting a new date for the trial.
Pantoja described the postponement as a stalling tactic, claiming the trial seems to be "endlessly delayed." She stated, "We have been patient, but we are not willing to remain unjustly limited by precautionary measures 'forever.'
"The endless delay in the trial demonstrates nothing but the complete crisis and disrepute of the Cuban judicial system," she added.
The activist argued that the case is politically motivated rather than about assault, showcasing "the regime's weakness in avoiding a trial due to its high cost for them."
The judicial order indicates that the decision will be communicated to the parties, but does not specify when the trial might resume.
Historians Alina Bárbara López and psychologist Jenny Pantoja were charged in June 2024 with assault, in a case they argue was fabricated by political police. The proceedings have been plagued by delays, postponements, and travel restrictions on the accused, as noted when the trial date was first set.
The trial's suspension on social media sparked a wave of support, relief, and solidarity for both women. Many users labeled the decision "a delaying tactic," "a sign of fear," or "proof that the Cuban judiciary lacks independence." Others emphasized that the case "should never have existed" and called for its "permanent dismissal."
A comment summarized the prevailing sentiment: "This trial should never have happened. You are innocent, and the whole country knows it."
López and Pantoja announced that they will make joint statements through the Cuba X Cuba project. The judicial proceedings against these activists occur amid increasing pressure on critical voices in Cuba, where courts operate under the control of political machinery and State Security.
Key Questions Regarding the Postponed Trial of Cuban Activists
Why was the trial of Alina Bárbara López and Jenny Pantoja postponed?
The trial was postponed due to an ongoing "reorganization of judicial activities" within the Municipal People's Court of Matanzas, though no specific reasons or new dates were provided.
What charges are López and Pantoja facing?
Both activists are facing charges of assault, which they claim were fabricated by the political police as part of a politically motivated trial.
How has the public reacted to the trial's suspension?
The public reaction on social media has largely been supportive, with many viewing the suspension as a stalling tactic and expressing solidarity with the activists.