The Cuban regime has released Félix Navarro, a prominent dissident and coordinator of the Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy, from Agüica prison in Matanzas this past Saturday. However, his sole daughter, Sayli Navarro Álvarez, remains incarcerated. The organization Cubalex shared a video showing the renowned human rights advocate strolling through the streets of Perico, Matanzas, where he resides.
At 71 years of age, Navarro was serving a nine-year prison sentence. Meanwhile, Sayli, an independent journalist and member of the Ladies in White, is enduring an eight-year penalty. Both were prosecuted due to their involvement in the July 11th protests, accused of crimes such as assault, public disorder, and contempt. They faced violent arrest the day after the demonstrations when they visited a police station to inquire about the whereabouts of their organization members.
This marks Navarro's third political conviction as he continues over three decades of peaceful activism advocating for democracy. Both he and his daughter have repeatedly refused offers of exile in exchange for freedom, choosing instead to persist in their struggle within Cuba.
Key Questions on Félix Navarro's Release
Who is Félix Navarro?
Félix Navarro is a Cuban dissident and coordinator of the Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy, known for his extensive activism for democratic rights in Cuba.
Why was Félix Navarro imprisoned?
Navarro was imprisoned for his participation in the July 11th protests in Cuba, facing charges of assault, public disorder, and contempt.
What stance have Navarro and his daughter taken on exile?
Both Félix Navarro and his daughter Sayli have consistently refused to accept exile in exchange for their freedom, opting to continue their opposition efforts within Cuba.