The young Cuban activist Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, who is widely recognized online as Anna Bensi, exited a police station in Alamar on Tuesday following a summons from State Security. This event has stirred concern among her followers both within and outside Cuba.
"She just left the station at 3:07 pm. God is in control!" shared David Espinosa, a young Christian, on Facebook. He included a photo of Anna walking alone outside the police station after the questioning.
The summons was scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the PNR 27 station in Alamar, Havana. Anna Sofía previously reported that the notice was not handed to her directly but to her cousin, and it failed to clarify her status, which she deemed irregular.
Ongoing Pressure on Activists
Authorities claimed the session was a "declaration" regarding the case against her mother, Caridad "Cary" Silvente. However, Anna Sofía dismissed this explanation, insisting the real aim was to intimidate her.
The situation surrounding her mother is at the heart of this confrontation. Cary Silvente was questioned after recording and sharing footage of a Ministry of the Interior agent delivering a summons at her home. As a result, she faces charges under Cuba's Penal Code, which could lead to imprisonment, house arrest, or a travel ban.
Defiance in the Face of Oppression
Anna Sofía anticipated her own summons after receiving direct warnings from an officer during her mother's interrogation. Despite the mounting harassment, she has publicly asserted her intention to continue speaking out.
The image of her solitary departure from the station, under the Havana sun, has come to represent a story that many Cubans watch with unease: a family under institutional pressure for their outspoken presence on social media.
Amidst this tension, her mother, Caridad "Cary" Silvente, also voiced her support for her daughter. "God be with you, my child. My unconditional support is with you. No one can accuse you for thinking differently. Freedom for political prisoners," she declared.
Cuban Activists Under Pressure: Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Anna Sofía Benítez's police summons?
Anna Sofía Benítez was summoned by State Security, allegedly for a "declaration" related to her mother's legal case. However, she believes the true purpose was to apply pressure on her.
Why is Caridad "Cary" Silvente facing legal issues?
Cary Silvente faces legal issues for recording and sharing a video of an Interior Ministry agent serving a summons. This has led to potential charges under Cuba's Penal Code.
How has Anna Sofía responded to the harassment?
Despite increasing harassment, Anna Sofía has vowed to remain vocal and not be silenced by the intimidation tactics employed against her and her family.