The Cuban regime has issued fresh warnings to political prisoners recently released on early parole, cautioning that they could face re-arrest if they fail to adhere to imposed conditions. These statements were made on Friday during the government-run TV show "Hacemos Cuba," which in its latest episode focused on the "National Exercise for Crime Prevention and Tackling Social Indiscipline."
During the broadcast, Colonel Danisét González Sánchez, head of the Information and Analysis Department of the National Revolutionary Police General Directorate (PNR), confirmed that meetings were held with individuals on parole, involving even high-ranking government officials.
"In these meetings concerning crime, individuals already under police surveillance were involved. Additionally, those enjoying the benefit of early release were also called to these gatherings," González Sánchez elaborated.
Hidden Threats and Police Surveillance
The program's host, Humberto López, took the opportunity to inquire about some attendees who hadn't returned home after the meetings. "Is it correct that some were called to these meetings and didn't return? Is this legal? What purpose does this serve?" López inquired with a hint of malice.
In response, the colonel stated, "For those who were detained, there was sufficient evidence that they breached the conditions for which they had been granted early release." She added that the exercise aimed to exert greater influence and control over those demonstrating deviant conduct in the community and those predisposed to criminal activity.
González Sánchez indicated that the regime maintains a stringent watch on those released on parole, as well as individuals considered likely to commit crimes. "These meetings included those already under police watch," she noted, justifying the arrests by claiming a coordinated effort between the police, families, community factors, and prevention groups.
Government Tactics to Control Opposition
This intimidation strategy is part of a broader Cuban government effort to keep a firm grip on opposition and civil society. Cuban authorities have toughened their rhetoric and actions amidst the anti-corruption drive spearheaded by Miguel Díaz-Canel, which has led to the discovery of tax violations amounting to 72 million pesos, the confiscation of tons of goods, and the shutdown of numerous private businesses across the island.
In recent weeks, the regime has ramped up its crackdown, with over 3,300 arrests and summary trials reported. The prevention exercise has also been wielded as a tool to discredit activists and dissidents. Through state television, the regime has attempted to link dissent with criminal activity, intensifying its rhetoric against those who expose the country's plight.
During the "Hacemos Cuba" broadcast, it was highlighted that control operations will remain in force and that those conditionally released could be re-arrested if they fail to comply with strict conditions. "These individuals who hadn't managed to change their behavior were detained and charged with disobedience," declared the MININT official featured on López's show, known for vilifying and discrediting activists and intimidating independent civil society.
The airing of the previous Friday's ill-fated program underscores the regime's growing concern over social unrest and its intent to enforce rigorous control over opposition members and the general populace. Although the "National Exercise for Crime Prevention and Tackling Social Indiscipline" took place at the start of December 2024, it wasn't until Friday that the Cuban regime dedicated a TV segment to it, deliberately emphasizing the threat of a return to prison for political prisoners granted early release, who began to be released in mid-January 2025.
The threat of re-arrest for those released on parole confirms the government's strategy of repression and intimidation as tools for social control. Despite official efforts to project an image of order and legality, independent reports and civil society complaints continue to reveal the reality of a country plagued by political persecution and a lack of legal guarantees for its citizens.
Understanding Cuba's Political Climate and Parole Threats
What is the Cuban regime's stance on political prisoners released on parole?
The Cuban regime has warned that political prisoners released on parole could be re-arrested if they do not comply with imposed conditions, indicating a strategy of ongoing repression.
How does the regime justify the detention of former prisoners?
The regime claims that there is sufficient evidence of breach of parole conditions and insists on a coordinated effort between police and community authorities to control behavior.
What is the broader strategy of the Cuban government regarding opposition?
The government aims to control opposition and civil society through intimidation and repression, linking dissent with criminal activity, and enforcing strict surveillance.