The effort to nominate Cuban political prisoner José Daniel Ferrer for the prestigious Sakharov Prize, driven by various organizations and personalities within Cuban civil society, aims to protect and safeguard the opposition leader, whose physical and psychological well-being is in severe jeopardy, according to the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights.
The nomination request was sent in a letter to Members of the European Parliament, highlighting the "urgent situation that demands immediate attention and action." The letter emphasized, "His life is at grave risk due to the conditions he is held in and the ongoing violation of his fundamental rights. José Daniel is isolated in a cell as additional punishment, with no family or phone contact. His family has repeatedly raised concerns about his deteriorating health and the potential consequences of prolonged solitary confinement."
The document acknowledges "the power of the international community and honorary distinctions to draw attention to critical situations," urging the consideration of nominating José Daniel Ferrer García for the Sakharov Prize. The signatories believe that "even if the prize is not awarded, the nomination itself would recognize his relentless fight for Cuban democracy and human rights and serve as an international protective shield, increasing pressure on responsible authorities and offering a glimmer of hope crucial for saving his life."
The letter is signed by Carlos Quintela, Director of the Cuban American Foundation, Tony Costa, President of the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba, Sylvia Iriondo, President of Mar por Cuba, Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, Secretary General of the Cuban Democratic Directorate and Coordinator of the Assembly for Resistance, Rosa María Payá, representative of Cuba Decide, and Marcell Felipe, President of the Inspire America Foundation, all based in Miami.
From inside Cuba, the letter includes signatures from Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, representative of the Cuban Center for Human Rights and former political prisoner from the Group of 75, Sakharov Prize winners Berta Soler and Guillermo Fariñas. European organizations such as the San Isidro Movement, the Cuban Women's Network, the Christian Democratic Party of Cuba, and the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights also joined the effort, represented by Yanelis Núñez, Elena Larrinaga de Luis, and Alejandro González Raga.
Additionally, a significant group of organizations and former political prisoners from inside and outside Cuba emphasized the importance of international support for the Cuban people.
José Daniel Ferrer, who turned 54 on July 29 while detained in the maximum-security Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba, has been imprisoned since July 11, 2021, following the widespread and spontaneous protests against the Cuban dictatorship. Ferrer is held in a sealed cell with no air circulation or external visibility. He receives no sunlight and endures constant noise within the cell, causing severe headaches, ear ringing, mouth bleeding, vision loss, cramps, and temporary hand paralysis.
Recently, his wife Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo reported that the regime denied her visitation rights, even though she attempted to visit with their children, Fátima Victoria and Daniel José. "Unfortunately, this right was denied once again," she said in an audio obtained by CiberCuba.
Ferrer is serving a four-year prison sentence imposed in February 2020 for alleged "injuries and deprivation of liberty" against a third party, which was later commuted to four and a half years of house arrest.
Key Questions on José Daniel Ferrer's Situation
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the current situation of José Daniel Ferrer, his imprisonment, and the international efforts for his nomination to the Sakharov Prize.
What is the Sakharov Prize?
The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought is awarded annually by the European Parliament to individuals or groups who have dedicated their lives to the defense of human rights and freedom of thought.
Why is José Daniel Ferrer's life at risk?
José Daniel Ferrer's life is at risk due to the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, including lack of air circulation, no sunlight, constant noise, and denial of family contact, all of which have severely impacted his health.
Who are the key figures supporting Ferrer's nomination?
Key figures supporting Ferrer's nomination include Carlos Quintela, Tony Costa, Sylvia Iriondo, Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, Rosa María Payá, and Marcell Felipe from Miami, as well as Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, Berta Soler, Guillermo Fariñas, and representatives from European organizations.