Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, a renowned Cuban specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation now residing in Colombia, broke his silence this Wednesday to vehemently refute allegations made by the Cuban Society of Physical Medicine. These accusations claim he falsified his academic credentials and engaged in alleged misconduct at a medical event in 2008. In a statement filled with indignation, Dr. Ruano dismissed these accusations and accused the Cuban regime of launching a "media lynching" against him for political reasons.
"Beware dictators, do not let your desperation drive you too far," wrote Dr. Ruano in a public declaration shared on social media. The state-run media accuses him of lying about his studies in South Korea, England, and the United States, and using his social platforms to "lie, coerce, threaten, and defame" in relation to the case of Damir Ortiz Ramírez, a humanitarian campaign in which Ruano has been actively involved.
Responding to these claims, Dr. Ruano recalled a previous administrative sanction he faced: "According to you, I was banned from practicing medicine in Cuba for being a 'fraud' (falsifying a résumé), among other 'misdeeds'," he noted. Building on this past, the exiled doctor argued that revisiting these events publicly, given they are not tied to new proceedings nor the execution of the previously imposed sanction, fundamentally violates his rights.
"If you dare to mention my name on your so-called news programs today, and show a single 'proof'—fabricated or not—you will be committing a grave offense against my honor," he warned. Dr. Ruano further emphasized that he holds Colombian citizenship, meaning the Cuban government has no jurisdiction over him beyond the Island. "I am a national Colombian lawyer, do not forget," he asserted, indicating his readiness to pursue legal action should the defamation campaigns continue.
A cornerstone of his defense is the legal principle of "non bis in idem," which ensures that no one can be tried or punished twice for the same offense. "A final and executed judgment or administrative measure prevents the initiation of a new administrative or public exhibition process for the same fact," he explained. The doctor reiterated that any current public exposure, if not related to new actions or enforcement of the original sanction, could be considered a breach of his privacy and presumption of innocence.
"Public exposure aimed at defaming or media lynching, if not justified by the enforcement of the sentence, could be deemed a violation of my fundamental rights," he stated. He also mentioned the international protection of human rights and the legal consequences of disseminating personal data or evidence from cases already judged without consent. "If photos, audio, alleged written evidence, or even public speech are shared without the involved party's authorization, it could constitute a breach of privacy and is punishable under international law," he declared.
"I am waiting for you," Dr. Ruano concluded, issuing a clear legal warning to the Cuban regime. "Do not give me more reasons to initiate an international legal process against the Cuban misgovernment. Or do go ahead, I am waiting," he concluded with a resolute tone.
Understanding the Legal Battle Between Dr. Ruano and the Cuban Regime
What are the accusations against Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano?
Dr. Ruano is accused by the Cuban Society of Physical Medicine of falsifying his academic credentials and engaging in alleged misconduct during a 2008 medical event.
How has Dr. Ruano responded to these allegations?
Dr. Ruano has vehemently denied the accusations, claiming they are part of a politically motivated "media lynching" by the Cuban regime, and is prepared to take legal action if necessary.
What legal principle is Dr. Ruano relying on in his defense?
Dr. Ruano is invoking the principle of "non bis in idem," which prevents an individual from being tried or punished twice for the same offense.