The prominent Cuban opposition leader, José Daniel Ferrer García, has been released after spending three and a half years behind bars. His sister, Ana Belkis Ferrer, confirmed the news on social media this Thursday. "I am Ana Belkis Ferrer García. My brave brother José Daniel Ferrer García has been released. FREEDOM for ALL," she posted, expressing the family's relief.
Activist Rosa María Payá had earlier hinted at Ferrer's release, stating, "I just spoke with José Daniel Ferrer. The oppressors had to release him because he refused to accept any conditions for his freedom. Firm and ready to continue the fight for Cuba’s freedom! Heart of a hero! Such pride!" she shared on X.
Recognized as a "prisoner of conscience" by Amnesty International (AI), Ferrer was imprisoned on July 12, 2021, following the anti-government protests of July 11. The 54-year-old leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) has long been a staunch opponent of Cuba's communist regime, enduring numerous imprisonments, persecutions, and retaliations for his political activities.
Born on July 29, 1970, in Santiago de Cuba, José Daniel Ferrer has emerged as a key figure in the fight for human rights and civil liberties in Cuba over recent decades. Many consider him the most significant activist since the late Oswaldo Payá.
Ferrer’s activism began in the 1990s. During the "Black Spring" of March 2003, he was arrested along with 74 other dissidents in a crackdown against independent journalists and activists. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison for "acts against the independence and territorial integrity of the State."
During his imprisonment, Ferrer became a symbol of peaceful resistance, highlighting the inhumane conditions in Cuban prisons and fostering solidarity among political prisoners.
Foundation of UNPACU
In 2011, after being released under a special parole thanks to mediation by the Catholic Church and the Spanish government, Ferrer founded the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU). This movement was established as a platform to coordinate civic resistance and demand democratic reforms, freedom of expression, and respect for human rights.
Based in Santiago de Cuba, UNPACU has become one of the most active opposition groups on the island, utilizing strategies such as distributing food and medicine, organizing peaceful protests, and running awareness campaigns.
Persecution and Imprisonment
In recent years, Ferrer has faced constant arbitrary detentions, raids, and smear campaigns by Cuban authorities. In October 2019, he was arrested once more on charges of "assault" and "unlawful restraint," accusations that international organizations claim were fabricated to silence his dissident activities.
His arrest drew widespread international condemnation, with statements from Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the European Parliament recognizing him as a prisoner of conscience. Ferrer was under house arrest at the time of the protests that eventually led to his re-imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions About José Daniel Ferrer
Who is José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer is a Cuban opposition leader and human rights activist, known for his firm stance against the communist regime and his leadership of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU).
Why was José Daniel Ferrer imprisoned?
Ferrer was imprisoned for his activism and opposition to the Cuban government, with charges often viewed by international organizations as politically motivated to suppress dissent.
What is UNPACU?
The Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) is an opposition group founded by José Daniel Ferrer in 2011, aiming to promote civic resistance and advocate for democratic reforms and human rights in Cuba.