Opposition Group Distances Itself from Alleged Armed Raid Resulting in Four Deaths in Cuba

The Cuban Republican Party (CRP), which claims to be the largest political opposition group in Cuba, has released a statement dissociating itself from the actions of 10 Cubans residing in the United States. These individuals set out on a boat towards the Cuban coast, where a confrontation with border guards ultimately led to four fatalities.

With a presence and membership both inside and outside the island, the opposition group emphasizes in its declaration that its mission is purely political.

"The CRP does not endorse armed actions nor does it control the personal decisions or actions of its members or followers," states the message shared on Facebook.

Regarding the incident in Cuba, the Party confirmed that Michel Ortega Casanova, one of the four victims killed by the Castro regime's forces during the armed excursion, was indeed a member of the organization.

"Although Michel was a CRP member, the leadership was completely unaware of his intentions, plans, or involvement in the incident," the document highlights.

Ortega Casanova had recently arrived in the United States and was living in Tampa. The organization Casa Cuba of Tampa described him as "a patriot, a man committed to the cause of freedom, and a member of the Cuban Republican Party."

To the Cuban Republican Party, this tragic event is indicative of the desperation the Cuban people have been driven to under the tyranny of six decades of repression, lack of freedoms, and the closure of all civic avenues.

The CRP reiterates its commitment to political struggle, responsibility, and respect for life, offering condolences to the families of the fallen, as stated in the communiqué signed by its president Ibrahim Bosch.