Independent journalist Camila Acosta has revealed new details about one of the repressors of the Cuban State Security, known by the alias "Major Alejandro."
In a thread shared on his Twitter account (now X), Acosta recounted how, after not seeing him for four years, he recently recognized him "in a place in Havana."
According to his account, Alejandro led several repressive actions against him during 2020, including evictions, arbitrary detentions, interrogations, and threats.
Acosta recalled that Alejandro was also responsible for harassing other activists and independent journalists such as Iliana Hernández, Nancy Alfaya, Marthadela Tamayo, and María Matienzo.
"He is one of those oppressors who takes pleasure in intimidating others, relishing the power that comes from instilling fear. That’s why, when Cuba changes – and it will undoubtedly change one day – he won’t be able to hide behind the excuse of merely following orders," the journalist wrote.
In his thread, Acosta revealed that during an interrogation in 2020, Alejandro threatened that it would be his grandparents who would suffer the consequences of his work, stating: “We know they are very ill, they could end up in the hospital at any moment, and whatever happens to them will be your fault.”
The journalist added that the oppressor ordered the creation of a criminal file against her with false accusations.
After recognizing him in Havana, Acosta and his partner, also a victim of Major Alejandro, managed to record footage of the repressor, who tried to snatch the phone to prevent being recorded.
He emphasized that these documents will be crucial for future complaints and did not rule out their involvement in a potential justice process in a "Cuban Nuremberg."
Acosta concluded his presentation with a message: "It's important for these hitmen to understand that their impunity will come to an end, and that not even hiding under a rock will allow them to escape justice."
Camila Acosta was detained in July 2021 after covering the protests of July 11 and subsequently placed under house arrest for over ten months, accused of "public disorder" and "incitement to commit a crime."
During this period, Acosta reported the ongoing harassment by State Security, including constant surveillance outside his home and restrictions on his freedom of movement.
In November 2021, after 118 days of house arrest, he reported that the surveillance had become more aggressive, with State Security agents and police monitoring his activities around the clock.
In May 2022, the authorities closed the case and imposed a fine of 1,000 pesos, allowing him to regain his freedom of movement.
However, the harassment continued, with incidents such as the siege of his home by State Security in April 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions about Repression in Cuba and Independent Journalism
Who is Camila Acosta and what is her current situation in Cuba?
Camila Acosta is an independent Cuban journalist who has faced repression and harassment from the Cuban State Security. In 2021, she was detained while covering the protests of July 11 and subjected to house arrest for over ten months. Although she was later allowed to regain her freedom of movement, the harassment has persisted, including surveillance and restrictions on her liberty.
What did Camila Acosta report about Major Alejandro from State Security?
Camila Acosta reported that Major Alejandro, a Cuban State Security agent, led repressive actions against her, including evictions, arbitrary detentions, and threats. Alejandro was also responsible for harassing other activists and independent journalists, and Acosta emphasized that he takes pleasure in intimidating others, using his power to instill fear.
What is the current context of repression against independent journalists in Cuba?
Repression against independent journalists in Cuba has intensified since mid-2024, with the government employing tactics of psychological torture and coercion to dismantle initiatives critical of the regime. These actions include threats, confiscations, and extortion, aiming to force resignations and obtain "confessions" from journalists.
What legal actions does the Cuban regime use to suppress independent journalism?
The Cuban regime employs a repressive legal framework to criminalize independent journalism. Among the laws enforced are Article 143 of the Penal Code, which accuses those receiving foreign funds of "mercenarism," and Decrees Law 370 and 35. Furthermore, the recent Social Communication Law further limits freedom of expression by recognizing only media linked to the Communist Party.
Filed under: