The Cuban judge María Elena Fornari Conde, sanctioned by the U.S. Department of State for her involvement in human rights violations against opponents, reacted with surprise upon learning about the measure, according to a phone conversation broadcast by journalist Mario Vallejo of Univisión 23.
The woman stated that she is not a professional lawyer, but serves as a lay judge, a judicial figure in Cuba that allows individuals without formal legal education to participate in courts.
The Cuban government presents it as a form of popular participation, but human rights organizations assert that this structure operates in service of political power, without real guarantees of independence.
During the call, Fornari, who resides in the La Lisa municipality in Havana, categorically denied having been involved in trials against opponents.
"You can't be judging me for something that you don't know and that I don't know either. One must be very careful about judging people like that," she stated in a warning tone.
It also noted that she only participates in cases of common crimes, such as thefts or accidents, and that she has never been involved in political processes.
When Vallejo asked her about the accusations, she responded that she would consult her uncle, who "is involved in human rights," without providing any further details.
Finally, in an attempt to distance himself from controversial judicial decisions, he stated that as a lay judge, his role is "to have evidence, defend individuals, discuss, and debate."
The conversation became tense when his daughter intervened, questioning the journalist about his identity and accusing him of breaking the law.
It was noticeable that the woman was unaware of key figures in American politics, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is openly critical of the Cuban regime.
The inclusion on the list of sanctioned individuals by the U.S. government contradicts the statements of Fornari Conde.
Washington holds her accountable, along with three other judicial officials, for her role in the trial of the young protester Luis Robles Elizástigui, sentenced for peacefully protesting in Havana in 2020 with a sign demanding freedom and an end to repression.
Robles was released at the beginning of this year after serving a significant portion of his sentence.
The State Department announced on Wednesday sanctions against Fornari and three other judges of the Provincial People's Court of Havana, prohibiting them and their immediate family members from entering the United States.
According to the official statement, "these regime officials and their families are not eligible to enter the United States" for having been part of judicial processes deemed simulated and arbitrary.
The sanctions are part of the Trump Administration's policy of punishing those involved in repressive acts in Cuba.
Marco Rubio issued a direct warning to the regime, stating that officials who violate the human rights of the Cuban people will face tangible consequences.
"Today, the United States holds three Cuban judges and a Cuban prosecutor responsible for their role in the arbitrary detention of Luis Robles Elizástigui. With this action, these individuals are no longer eligible to enter our nation," it stated on X.
The inclusion of lay judges in this type of measure also brings to the forefront the legitimacy of this role within the Cuban judicial system, which has been questioned internationally due to its lack of impartiality.
"These sanctions send a clear message: those who participate in repression will not go unpunished," concluded the statement from Washington.
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