Panama assures support for citizens detained in Cuba

Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha has confirmed that seven Panamanian citizens detained in Cuba are receiving comprehensive support from their government. He stated that Panama provides legal assistance, diplomatic protection, and consular aid to these individuals.

Martínez-Acha emphasized that while Panama respects the legal processes initiated by Cuban authorities, the nation remains vigilant to ensure all international rights of the detained citizens are upheld. The individuals face accusations of propaganda against the constitutional order, a charge rooted in Cuba's penal code.

The minister assured that the Cuban government has guaranteed the detainees are being treated appropriately. He mentioned that Panama's consul in Cuba visited the detained citizens this week. Although he requested discretion regarding potential solutions, Martínez-Acha confirmed that the Panamanian government is collaborating with Cuban authorities and closely monitoring the legal status of the seven citizens.

Ten Panamanians were initially detained in Cuba on March 2, 2026. Four were later released, but seven remain in custody. They are accused of inciting against the social order and the socialist state through propagandistic material. The legal process in Cuba allows for an investigative phase of up to 90 days before a case proceeds to trial. During this period, detainees are held at Villa Marista, a State Security facility in Havana often used for political prisoners. The charges carry potential prison sentences ranging from three to eight years, possibly increasing to ten if digital or audiovisual means were used.