Detention of journalist Henry Constantin in Cuba

Henry Constantin, the editor-in-chief of the independent news outlet La Hora de Cuba, was detained by Cuban authorities in Camagüey on September 16. Following a verbal summons, Constantin was reportedly accused of ‘disobedience’. His detention followed a brief arrest the previous week and a history of harassment related to his journalistic work.

By September 21, Constantin had been held for one week at the Villa María Luisa State Security headquarters. Authorities stated the investigation involves a failure to appear at a meeting with the Directorate of Identification, Immigration, and Foreigners on September 9. Legal representatives reported that Constantin had been denied phone calls, family visits, and access to his case file. Although a Habeas Corpus petition was presented to the Provincial Popular Court of Camagüey, the defense claimed to face continuous administrative obstacles.

As of September 24, Constantin has been moved from the Villa María Luisa facility to the Kilo 7 prison. During a brief twenty-minute visit with his partner, journalist Alejandra García, Constantin stated, “I am calm and I stand firm,” expressing his determination not to yield to pressure.

Legal representatives continue to challenge the charges, arguing that under the Criminal Procedure Law, failure to appear for a first summons is typically sanctioned by a fine rather than imprisonment. Additionally, a scheduled habeas corpus hearing has reportedly been postponed. The Inter American Press Association (IAPA), noting Constantin’s role as its regional vice president for Cuba on its Commission on Freedom of the Press and Information, has condemned the detention as arbitrary.