Cuban authorities have cut off Internet access for prominent opposition figure José Daniel Ferrer, who leads the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), according to his wife, Ana Belkis Ferrer. The restriction comes in the wake of Ferrer's recent release, during which he has continued his opposition activities and refused to comply with police and state security summonses.
“The tyranny wants to isolate and silence them. Are they coming for them?” Ana Belkis Ferrer shared on social media. The Cuban government's tactic of limiting Internet access is a frequent strategy to suppress dissenting voices and hinder the spread of independent information.
Ferrer was released on January 16, 2025, after serving three and a half years in prison. His release was part of an agreement involving the Cuban regime, the Vatican, and the United States, which included the gradual release of 553 political prisoners. Following his release, Ferrer addressed the Cuban people, encouraging them to remain fearless as "the oppressor grows more fearful."
He urged, "Do not be afraid to fight for a free, just, and prosperous Cuba. Do not fear working towards a better future for all Cubans, so we don't have to seek freedom and better living conditions elsewhere." Despite his release, Ferrer criticized the agreement that facilitated it, stating he feels no gratitude towards "any unworthy process or negotiation that ends up benefiting the dictatorship."
Ferrer expressed concern that while some political prisoners are freed, the regime might imprison more individuals in the future, using these releases as leverage in international negotiations. On January 27, 2025, he refused a police summons in Santiago de Cuba, resolutely stating, "I'm not going anywhere." He reaffirmed his stance against collaborating with what he describes as the regime's repressive strategies, declaring, "For the freedom and welfare of my people, I am willing to give my life. Prison does not scare me."
Additionally, Ferrer has warned of potential detention and reiterated his dedication to Cuban liberation. In a message shared on January 28, 2025, he reported that regime forces might cut his internet, raid his home, and imprison him because of his refusal to remain silent in the face of abuses and crimes against the Cuban people. Despite these threats, he asserted, "I refuse to let the regime silence me. I refuse to be intimidated. I will continue fighting today, tomorrow, and always while I live, whether outside or inside prisons, for freedom, democracy, respect for human rights, and the well-being of my nation."
The international community has responded to his release and current situation. Mike Hammer, head of the U.S. Embassy in Havana, expressed his satisfaction with Ferrer's release and reiterated calls for the freedom of all political prisoners in Cuba. Despite his liberation, Ferrer continues to face challenges but remains steadfast in his commitment to the struggle for a free and democratic Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer's Situation
What is the current situation of José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer has had his Internet access restricted by the Cuban regime, a common tactic to suppress opposition. Despite being released, he continues to face challenges and threats due to his activism.
How did José Daniel Ferrer respond to his release?
After his release, Ferrer encouraged Cubans to be unafraid and continue fighting for freedom and prosperity. He criticized the agreement that led to his release for potentially benefiting the regime.
What was the international reaction to Ferrer's release?
The international community, including the U.S. Embassy in Havana, welcomed Ferrer's release and called for the freedom of all political prisoners in Cuba.