Cuban dissident José Daniel Ferrer, currently imprisoned in Mar Verde, Santiago de Cuba, has confirmed that he suffered a severe beating on November 18, allegedly carried out by military personnel working for Havana's communist regime. The news was shared on the social media platform X by his sister, Ana Belkis Ferrer García, who provided additional insights into the situation of the Unión Patriótica de Cuba (Unpacu) leader.
Ferrer managed to make a phone call to Yusmila Reyna Ferrera, the mother of his daughter Ana Laura. During the conversation, he recounted the incident and requested her to inform his wife, Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo, that a conjugal visit had been approved by the prison authorities.
Reports had surfaced two weeks ago revealing that Ferrer sustained a facial injury after being viciously attacked. However, it was only recently that this news was fully confirmed by Ferrer himself.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
His sister has described those responsible for the attack as "miserable and cowardly murderers" and demanded justice for Ferrer as well as other political prisoners and victims of repression in Cuba. This incident once again highlights the dire conditions faced by political detainees on the island and the ongoing allegations of human rights abuses by the Cuban regime.
International organizations and activists have urged increased efforts to shed light on these allegations and demand accountability. Ferrer, a prominent figure in the opposition movement, was arrested on July 11, 2021, after attempting to join popular protests that day.
Background on Ferrer's Imprisonment
He is currently serving a four-year prison sentence handed down in February 2020 for the alleged crimes of "assault and unlawful detention" against a third party. This case has garnered international attention and criticism, further spotlighting the Cuban government's harsh stance against dissent.
Understanding the Human Rights Situation in Cuba
What are the main human rights concerns in Cuba?
The principal human rights issues in Cuba include the repression of political dissent, restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly, and the treatment of political prisoners.
How has the international community responded to Ferrer's situation?
International organizations and human rights activists have consistently called for increased visibility of Ferrer's situation and demanded justice and accountability from the Cuban government.
Why was José Daniel Ferrer initially detained?
Ferrer was detained on July 11, 2021, for attempting to join popular protests against the Cuban government, which were part of a larger movement demanding freedom and change.