Cuban content creator Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, widely known as Anna Bensi, remains resolute in her decision to continue voicing her thoughts on social media despite the looming trial she faces alongside her mother, Caridad Silvente. The trial is set for October 1st, following a rescheduling from its original September 17th date.
Anna and her mother have been confined to house arrest and are prohibited from leaving the country. In an interview with CubaNet, Bensi shed light on their legal battle, elaborating on the complaint filed by the police officer involved and justifying her decision to share the video at the heart of the case.
The Origins of the Legal Battle
The charges stem from an incident on March 10th, when a MININT officer, Yoel Leodán Rabaza Ramos, visited their apartment to deliver a State Security summons. Anna and her mother recorded and shared the encounter online, a move they describe as a protective measure. Consequently, they were charged with "acts against personal and family privacy" and placed under house arrest on March 25th, based on Article 393 of the Penal Code.
Legal Proceedings and Accusations
The initial case was dismissed in April after their lawyer, Roberto Ortega Ortiz, argued that such a charge required a direct complaint from the aggrieved party, not a police report. However, the case was revived in July when Rabaza Ramos filed a direct complaint, leading to the announcement of the trial.
Bensi revealed that the officer claimed offense from the comments following the video’s release. Despite this, she insists there was no intention to humiliate him and refuses to record a public apology, despite the complainant's lawyer demanding two years of restricted freedom for both women.
Unyielding Commitment to Free Expression
Despite the legal challenges, Bensi expresses no animosity towards the officer, attributing his actions to pressures from State Security. She believes the ordeal is an attempt to silence their outspoken views. Undeterred, Bensi declares she would repeat her actions if necessary, viewing the documentation of such events as a form of protection. "I promised myself to expose any form of repression against me, my mother, or anyone in my circle," she stated.
With the trial mere days away, Bensi acknowledges the unequal playing field they face but is determined to testify and have their side of the story documented. Offers to leave Cuba and pursue her career elsewhere have been declined, particularly if they originate from authorities.
When asked if she might reconsider her outspoken stance due to the risks, Bensi firmly responded: "Why should I stay silent? It's not a position I'm willing to take. For now, I remain committed to speaking out."
Frequently Asked Questions about Anna Bensi's Trial
What are the charges against Anna Bensi and her mother?
They are charged with "acts against personal and family privacy" following the recording and distribution of a video featuring a police officer delivering a State Security summons.
Why was the initial case against them dismissed?
The case was initially dismissed because their lawyer argued that such offenses could only be pursued through a direct complaint from the individual offended, not a police report.
What is Anna Bensi's stance on the charges?
Anna Bensi maintains that she did not intend to offend the officer and sees the trial as an attempt to suppress her and her mother's freedom of expression.