Cuba President Miguel Diaz-Canel has revealed that Ex-Economy Minister Alejandro Gil Fernandez is under investigation by the police and the Attorney General's Office for "serious mistakes."

Gil, once a close collaborator of Diaz-Canel, was unexpectedly removed from his post in early February, with no clear explanation provided at the time, according to AP News.

While the president's announcement did not specify the nature of the alleged crimes, it emphasized a zero-tolerance stance on corruption within the government.

Gil Fernandez's dismissal marks the highest-ranking official to face such consequences since 2009 when Vice President Carlos Lage and Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque were dismissed due to leaks of sensitive information.

The investigation into Gil was disclosed during the nightly Noticiero Estelar on state television of Cuba, where it was noted that Gil had acknowledged the serious accusations and resigned from both the Communist Party's Central Committee and his parliamentary seat.

Allegations and Resignation

A television news broadcast and a subsequent article in the state-run digital outlet Cuba Debate accused Gil of "serious errors" in the performance of his duties but provided no specific details.

The state-run media stressed the government's commitment to preventing corruption, simulation, and insensitivity.

The Ex-economy Minister, Alejandro Gil Fernandez, however, did not immediately respond to these allegations. State-run media reported that he acknowledged the accusations and voluntarily stepped down from his party and parliamentary positions, Reuters reports.

Gil, known for advocating an unpopular plan to raise prices for various government-subsidized services amidst economic challenges, served as Minister of Economy and Planning since 2018, taking on the role of deputy prime minister in 2019.

Political Climate and Accusations of Corruption

Cuba has a history of using accusations of corruption against officials perceived to favor reforms or as scapegoats for government policy failures.

The dismissal of the ex-economy minister, Alejandro Gil Fernandez, may be linked to his public announcements of policies that strained the country's economy and his support for private enterprises, a measure resisted by hardliners.

His sister, Maria Victoria Gil, residing in Spain, suggested on Facebook that he is being blamed for the government's political failures, emphasizing the government's tendency to discard officials when they cease to act as puppets, the Miami Herald noted.

The investigation also extends to businessman Fernando Javier Alban, owner of AgroIndustrial Media Luna, producing fruit juices and other products.

Sources indicate authorities are examining whether Gil personally benefited from his connection with Alban.

The broader context includes Prime Minister Manuel Marrero's announcement of austerity measures in December and retired general Raúl Castro's call for government officials not up to the task to step aside in January.

Contrary to the sudden nature of Gil's dismissal, recent events, including his public service at an organic farm and a birthday acknowledgment from President Diaz-Canel, indicated a stable position.

However, Diaz-Canel's Thursday statement painted a different picture, revealing harsh criticism of Gil's actions.

In conclusion, the investigation into the ex-economy minister Alejandro Gil Fernandez raises questions about the political climate in Cuba and the government's approach to officials involved in controversial policies.

The lack of specific details surrounding the allegations adds an air of mystery to this unfolding story, leaving the public to speculate on the true reasons behind Gil's downfall.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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