Carolina Barrero, director of Citizenship and Freedom, revealed that neither she nor her team were aware that Amelia Calzadilla —coordinator of the organization— intended to establish a political party, and that they learned about the news through social media, just like anyone else, despite Barrero and Calzadilla being together in Brussels days before the announcement, meeting with European lawmakers.
"Look, we were as perplexed as anyone because neither the team nor I knew about this, and we found out through social media," Barrero stated in an interview with Tania Costa from Berlin.
Calzadilla had participated in an interview with CiberCuba just one, two, or three days before announcing the founding of the Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party (PLOC), a center-right liberal political organization inspired by the ideals of José Martí and the free market, with the motto "Justice, Dignity, and Prosperity."
Barrero acknowledged Calzadilla's right to participate in politics, but stressed that the decision has direct consequences for his continued presence in the organization.
"With all these factors, she is now fulfilling her role as president of that party. Everything in life has consequences and conveys a very clear message," said Barrero.
The director of Citizenship and Freedom explained that the incompatibility is structural. "Citizenship and Freedom is an organization that defends civil and political rights, but it is not an ideological organization. That is to say, it is not a political party. We are a human rights organization and cannot be linked to or defend any particular ideology."
Barrero clarified that Calzadilla's departure does not jeopardize the continuity of Citizenship and Freedom. "The organization existed before Amelia was part of the team and will continue to exist after she is no longer on the team."
When asked if she would take the leap into partisan politics, Barrero responded without hesitation. "Of course, yes, of course. If I feel that I must do it at some point, I will."
However, she specified that the moment has not yet arrived. "Right now, I am focused on promoting democratic culture," she said, adding that this is what Cuba needs at this moment.
"I believe this is what the country needs now, more than presidential candidates. It needs to elevate the democratic culture so that citizens can truly discern and choose the democratic leaders they genuinely want."
Barrero also warned about the presence of "opportunistic charlatans" and "Pied Pipers" in the opposition politics, although he acknowledged their right to participate. What is important, he insisted, is that citizens have enough information to avoid being swayed.
Calzadilla and Barrero had visited the European Parliament together in April to request the suspension of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and Cuba, just weeks before the announcement of Calzadilla's party founding.
Barrero closed the topic with a farewell message to his former collaborator. "What we can do is wish her the best of luck in this political initiative that she has pursued along with other members, with other people she met yesterday, and that's all, and may her popularity thrive."
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