The Cuban journalist Mario J. Pentón announced the end of his tenure as a reporter for Martí Noticias following the expiration of his contract with that U.S. government news outlet.
Pentón explained to his followers that this is a crucial moment for those who engage in independent journalism about Cuba. Martí Noticias was a key player in the fight against the information monopoly of the Cuban regime, and the end of this work could be very near.
"My contract with Martí Noticias has ended, but what truly pains me is that, since the weekend, the station's voice has been silenced, quietly yet effectively meeting one of the oldest demands of the Cuban dictatorship to the United States government," said Pentón.
Officially, the transmission of Radio Martí in the Florida Keys has been shut down by order of the Donald Trump administration this Monday, following the administrative licensure of all employees of the station.
This Tuesday, Cuban-American Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart reacted to the decision by the Donald Trump administration to shut down Radio and TV Martí. He stated that this is a measure to reduce public spending.
In Díaz-Balart's view, this does not imply the end of communication with the Cuban people, and he insists that Republican congressmen will find a solution that allows for the ongoing transmission of information to Cuba.
In January 2024, Pentón announced that he was joining the team of Martí Noticias and ending his contract with America Tevé, after the network put him in the position of choosing between his social media and his work at the channel.
Pentón has maintained a strong career dedicated to journalism about Cuba and has gradually become a significant communicator for Cubans, specializing in issues of migration and politics.
"I will continue doing journalism and telling the world the truth about Cuba. I am not worried about my future; I trust in God and my desire to work. I will lack nothing. To the regime, I say: This is until the end, this struggle continues," Pentón expressed.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Closure of Radio Martí and Its Impact on Information about Cuba
Why was Radio Martí shut down?
Radio Martí was shut down due to an executive order from the Donald Trump administration aimed at reducing public spending by eliminating agencies deemed unnecessary, as part of the U.S. Agency for Global Media.
What impact does the closure of Radio Martí have in Cuba?
The closure of Radio Martí affects the reception of independent information in Cuba, as this station has been a crucial source to counteract the propaganda of the Cuban regime and provide uncensored news to the Cuban population.
What reaction has there been to the closure of Radio Martí?
The closure of Radio Martí has sparked strong criticism from politicians, opposition members, and organizations that advocate for press freedom, who believe that this measure benefits the Cuban regime by removing a source of independent information. Several figures, such as Mario Díaz-Balart and José Daniel Ferrer, have urged Donald Trump to reconsider this decision.
Is there a chance that Radio Martí will resume operations?
Although the closure is official, some congress members like Mario Díaz-Balart have expressed that they are working on a solution to maintain communication with the Cuban people. However, the future of Radio Martí remains uncertain as alternatives for its reactivation are being evaluated.
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