The Cuban activist Alfredo González, father of the young Annier González, who took his own life while fulfilling his Compulsory Military Service (CMS), was released under precautionary measures after being arrested in Matanzas.
In a message posted on his account, González explained: “To everyone who has been concerned, I was released on conditional terms. At first, I was accused of contempt and it seemed like I was going to be sent to the facility where I lost my son. Then they asked me for a bail of 5,000 pesos and an hour later, they issued a conditional release since they said the case was going to be investigated and I didn’t have to pay bail. I was released thanks to all those who supported me.”
An activist against compulsory military service
The arrest of González occurred on Monday, after he reported on social media an officer who, he has claimed for months, was directly responsible for the harassment and abuse his son suffered before his death in 2023.
Since the tragedy, the father has become one of the most active voices against the SMO in Cuba, using videos, letters, and posts to denounce the abuses within this system. In February 2024, he swore over his son's grave that he would not rest until justice was achieved.
An increasing debate in Cuba
The case of Annier González is part of a growing wave of scrutiny regarding military service on the island, especially following tragic incidents involving personnel lacking professional training.
During the fire at the Supertankers Base in Matanzas in August 2022, the involvement of young recruits without proper training was confirmed. More recently, the explosion in the town of Melones (Holguín), which claimed the lives of several young people, reignited the debate on the use of minors and non-voluntary young people in high-risk tasks.
An informal movement on social media
González has channeled his activism through the Facebook group “No more VICTIMS in military service in Cuba,” where dozens of families have reported deaths, accidents, and abuses within the military system. His case has brought to light a taboo topic in Cuban society, exposing the high human cost of mandatory military service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mandatory Military Service in Cuba and the Case of Alfredo González
Why was Alfredo González arrested?
Alfredo González was arrested for reporting on social media about an officer who, according to him, was directly responsible for the harassment and mistreatment that his son Annier suffered before his death while serving in Mandatory Military Service in Cuba. He was charged with "contempt" following his allegations.
What measures were taken after the release of Alfredo González?
Alfredo González was released under precautionary measures after his arrest. Initially, he was asked for a bail of 5,000 pesos, but in the end, he did not have to pay it as it was indicated that the case would be investigated. He was released thanks to the support received from various people.
What is the impact of the Annier González case on the debate about Mandatory Military Service in Cuba?
The case of Annier González has brought to light and intensified the debate about Mandatory Military Service in Cuba, highlighting complaints of abuse, mistreatment, and negligence faced by young recruits. This case adds to other tragic incidents that have raised questions about the use of minors and non-voluntary young individuals in hazardous tasks.
How has Cuban society reacted to the abuses in Mandatory Military Service?
The Cuban society has reacted with outrage and increasing mobilization on social media and informal activism groups such as "No more VICTIMS in military service in Cuba." Many families have publicly reported deaths, accidents, and abuses within the military system, demanding justice and reforms.
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