Frank Cuspinera Medina, a Cuban-American entrepreneur and the mastermind behind the supermarket Diplomarket, popularly dubbed the "Cuban Costco," has publicly accused the Cuban government of subjecting him to psychological torture, judicial manipulation, and violations of his fundamental rights while incarcerated in Cuba. In a heartfelt letter, Cuspinera announced his decision to undertake a hunger strike and made an urgent plea to the international community, human rights organizations, and the U.S. Department of State to intervene against what he describes as "ongoing violations" by Cuban authorities, according to the news outlet 14 y Medio.
Cuspinera claims that his arrest was orchestrated and executed by Cuba's State Security (DSE) and other institutions, including the Technical Directorate of Investigations (DTI), with the complicity of his own lawyer. "I was denied the right to communication and legal defense from the outset," stated the Cuban-American, who alleges he was arrested on June 20, 2024. Following his arrest, his business was reportedly seized by regime forces, including auditors from the military conglomerate GAESA, who allegedly confiscated all his assets.
Entrepreneur's Struggle Against State Repression
As vice president of Las Américas TCC Corporation in Florida, Cuspinera contends that the actions against him were part of a strategic plan by the regime to stifle his rising influence as a private sector leader. "I was developing a company with federal licenses in the U.S. that competed with state enterprises. That was enough to make me a target for the repressive apparatus," he asserts.
In his letter, Cuspinera announces his intent to commence a hunger strike on June 1, willing to face "extreme consequences" if not allowed legal defense and the opportunity to request bail. He identifies himself as a "citizen, lawyer, and Cuban-American entrepreneur," tying his ventures, including Cuspinera SURL LVI, both in Havana and Florida, under the Diplomarket brand.
Diplomarket's Rise and Monitoring
Opened quietly at the end of 2022, Diplomarket gained attention following a report by CNN correspondent Patrick Oppmann. Located in Berroa on the outskirts of Havana, the supermarket initially operated as an online store and was under heavy surveillance from its inception, as confirmed by the independent media 14ymedio.
The Cuban authorities, though informally, accuse him of tax evasion, currency trafficking, and money laundering, but Cuspinera contends that these charges are based on manipulated statements from employees, some of whom have since left the country. "They have fabricated a baseless case to justify the expropriation of my business," he asserts.
Pattern of Repression Against Private Sector Initiatives
Cuspinera's allegations echo other recent high-profile cases involving business leaders and officials who have fallen out of favor with the regime, such as the former Economy Minister Alejandro Gil, detained in March 2024. Through his letter, Cuspinera aims to break the official silence and reveal what he believes is a systematic pattern of repression against those who strive to advance the private sector in Cuba. "I do not want to evade justice," he concludes, "I only demand the right to defend myself."
Frequently Asked Questions about Frank Cuspinera's Case
What led to Frank Cuspinera's arrest in Cuba?
Frank Cuspinera claims his arrest was premeditated and orchestrated by Cuba's State Security and other institutions, aiming to curb his influence as a private sector entrepreneur competing with state enterprises.
What are the main accusations against Frank Cuspinera?
The Cuban government informally accuses him of tax evasion, currency trafficking, and money laundering, charges that Cuspinera argues are based on manipulated testimonies.
What actions has Frank Cuspinera taken in response to his situation?
Frank Cuspinera announced a hunger strike starting June 1, demanding the right to legal defense and bail, and has called for international intervention against Cuban authorities' actions.