Mario Urquía Addresses Controversial $19,000 Theft from Grand Lodge of Cuba

Mario Alberto Urquía Carreño, officially the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Cuba (GLC)—though increasingly unrecognized by many lodges—recently spoke out about the controversy that has rocked Cuban Freemasonry in recent months, following the theft of $19,000 from his office and his subsequent expulsion from the Order.

In a video message directed to GLC members, accessed by the independent media outlet Cubanet, Urquía Carreño explained that the stolen money belonged to the National Masonic Asylum. He addressed the accusations against him, including charges of treason and theft. He also referred to a protest by Freemasons outside the GLC headquarters on July 23.

Until now, Mario Urquía had only issued official communications directed at internal Masonic groups. However, this time he decided to speak out publicly. "This Grand Master had to make this video because the attacks have become too much," he said, explaining his decision to go public.

Urquía Carreño categorically denied being responsible for the theft and clarified that the police document he signed, committing to return the money, does not imply admission of guilt. He explained that the delay in reimbursing the sum was due to the need to comply with Cuban laws, which require the repayment to be made in Cuban pesos (CUP), resulting in a significant loss due to the disparity with the dollar's value in the informal market.

The Grand Master also questioned the initial statement issued by the National Masonic Asylum's Board, calling it "incriminating." He emphasized that he had already made a deposit of 270,000 CUP, equivalent to $1,000 USD, as a show of his commitment to return the funds. He also mentioned that authorities had warned him to avoid any form of currency trafficking, which he claims limited his actions to resolve the situation.

Protests and Government Support

During the semi-annual session of the GLC's High Chamber, held on March 24, Urquía Carreño was expelled amidst shouts of "traitor" and "thief." However, governmental institutions of the Castro regime have backed his leadership, asserting that the replacement lacks legality. This situation has further fueled controversy within Cuban Freemasonry, dividing its members.

In his message, Urquía Carreño highlighted that investigations conducted by the competent authorities have exonerated him from any responsibility in connection with the theft. He also claimed to be a victim of a smear campaign orchestrated by some Masonic members, which he says has negatively impacted his personal businesses and ability to meet financial commitments.

On July 23, approximately 200 Freemasons gathered at the Grand Lodge of Cuba's headquarters to demand Urquía's resignation. In his video, the Grand Master described the protest as a violation of Masonic laws and asserted that he would not yield to pressure. He announced plans to convene a meeting with lodge representatives, open to all Freemasons wishing to participate, to clarify doubts and resolve current tensions.

Finally, the Grand Master expressed his intention to restore unity within Cuban Freemasonry and sought the support of his fellow Masons to uphold the laws and principles of the GLC. He also criticized the actions of the Supreme Council, accusing it of attempting to undermine his leadership by spreading misleading information.

Urquía Carreño emphasized that despite everything, Cuban Freemasonry remains a strong and respected institution throughout the country.