The Cuban opposition leader, José Daniel Ferrer, who serves as the coordinator for the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), has recently raised concerns about his home in Santiago de Cuba being monitored by the political police using a drone. Ferrer, who has been on conditional release since January, highlighted the presence of the drone hovering above his residence and police elements nearby, indicating this is part of the ongoing harassment and repression by the Cuban government against him.
Through his social media channels, Ferrer described the incident, noting that after his son's dog started barking, he surveyed the yard and found nothing that explained the disturbance. "Today, several neighbors told me it was a political police drone over my roof and yard, with several agents on our street. This against a peaceful Cuban who desires the best for our people. Meanwhile, murders and violent robberies are increasing across the country," he stated in a social media post.
The report stirred reactions among Cuban dissidents, including Rosa María Payá, a human rights activist and daughter of the late dissident Oswaldo Payá. Payá condemned the surveillance of Ferrer and highlighted the severe crisis in Cuba in a post on her X account (formerly Twitter): "People are starving, blackouts last 20 hours a day, hospitals are infested with rats, and DiazCanelB is flying drones over jdanielferrer's family home. Inept and criminal."
On January 16, 2025, after spending more than three years in prison, José Daniel Ferrer was released as part of an agreement between the Cuban regime, the Vatican, and the United States, which involved the gradual release of 553 political prisoners. Following his release, Ferrer sent a message of resilience and hope to Cubans, urging them to shed their fear because "the oppressor is increasingly frightened."
He declared, "Do not be afraid to fight for a free, just, prosperous Cuba. Do not be afraid to work for a better future for all Cubans so that we do not have to seek freedom and better living conditions elsewhere."
Despite his release, Ferrer continues to face harassment from authorities. On January 27, 2025, he refused a police summons in Santiago de Cuba, asserting, "I am not going anywhere." He reiterated his stance of not cooperating with what he describes as the Cuban regime's repressive strategies, stating, "For the freedom and well-being of my people, I will give even my life. Prison does not scare me."
Recently, the Cuban regime has restricted his Internet access, according to his wife, Ana Belkis Ferrer. This action occurs in a context where, following his release, Ferrer has continued his opposition efforts and even rejected summons from the Cuban police and State Security.
Understanding the Political Climate in Cuba
Why is José Daniel Ferrer under surveillance?
José Daniel Ferrer is under surveillance due to his role as a prominent opposition leader in Cuba, which challenges the current regime's authority. His activism with UNPACU has made him a target for political repression.
What has been the response to Ferrer's claims of surveillance?
Ferrer’s claims have sparked reactions from other opposition figures and human rights activists, who criticize the Cuban government's actions and highlight the broader issues of repression and crisis within the country.
How does Ferrer continue his opposition work despite restrictions?
Despite facing restrictions, including limited Internet access and police harassment, Ferrer remains committed to his opposition activities, utilizing social media and public statements to continue advocating for change in Cuba.