The prominent Cuban opposition leader, José Daniel Ferrer García, was released this Thursday after spending three and a half years behind bars. In his first public statements since his release, Ferrer sent a message of resilience and hope to the Cuban people, urging them to shed their fear as "the oppressor grows increasingly frightened."
"To my people, both those within the island and those in exile who are an integral part of our nation, my message is straightforward, heartfelt, and sincere," Ferrer stated in his remarks to Martí Noticias. "Do not fear fighting for a free, just, and prosperous Cuba. Do not be afraid to work towards a brighter future for all Cubans, so that we no longer have to seek freedom and better living conditions elsewhere," he asserted.
Ferrer encouraged facing the oppressor boldly, saying, "The oppressor is increasingly scared, growing weaker. The more we confront them with dignity and courage, the shorter their reign, the fewer abuses they can commit, and the fewer injustices they can perpetrate," he added.
He emphasized the collective power to transform Cuba, stating, "Together, we can change Cuba, end oppression, misery, hunger, and widespread poverty, and give Cuba and its people what we always deserved: a happy, free, just, and prosperous Cuba."
Ferrer apologized for the lengthy message, explaining his limited opportunities to speak over the past years, as he spent almost three and a half years in isolation. He was recently placed in a cell with six common prisoners, two of whom had to be removed: one for stealing food that Ferrer willingly shared, and another for making weapons.
Activist Rosa María Payá had earlier hinted at the circumstances surrounding Ferrer's release. "I just spoke with José Daniel Ferrer. The oppressors had to release him from prison because he did not agree to conditions for his freedom. Steadfast and ready to continue the fight for Cuba's liberation! A hero's heart! What pride!" Payá expressed in a social media post.
Recognized as a "prisoner of conscience" by Amnesty International, Ferrer was jailed on July 12, 2021, following the 11J anti-government protests. As the leader of the Unión Patriótica de Cuba (UNPACU), Ferrer, now 54, has long opposed Cuba's communist regime, enduring numerous imprisonments, persecutions, and reprisals for his political activities.
Insights on José Daniel Ferrer's Release and Advocacy
Why was José Daniel Ferrer imprisoned?
José Daniel Ferrer was imprisoned on July 12, 2021, due to his involvement in the anti-government protests known as 11J. He is a well-known opponent of the Cuban communist regime.
What message did José Daniel Ferrer convey upon his release?
Upon his release, Ferrer urged Cubans to overcome fear and continue the struggle for a free, just, and prosperous Cuba, emphasizing that the oppressor is becoming more fearful and weaker.
How did Ferrer's imprisonment affect him?
Ferrer spent almost three and a half years in isolation, limiting his ability to communicate. He was recently held in a cell with other prisoners, facing challenging conditions.