The prominent Cuban opposition leader, Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, touched down in Miami this Tuesday, seeking specialized medical care after enduring a precarious health situation in recent weeks. This marks a reunion with her family in the United States, whom she hasn't seen for a decade.
Her departure from Cuba was made possible after the regime lifted a travel ban imposed on her since 2018. Close sources to Roque Cabello report that she traveled in a fragile state, experiencing leg swelling just hours before her departure.
Upon arriving at Miami International Airport, Martha Beatriz Roque, speaking with a faint voice, mentioned that she left almost everything behind due to the swiftness of her journey. "Hope for freedom, it will come soon," she told Radio Televisión Martí when asked for a message to the Cuban people.
International Pressure and Humanitarian Visa
Roque's arrival in the United States was facilitated by international pressure and diplomatic efforts, resulting in her receiving an official travel document. The U.S. government granted her a humanitarian visa to continue her medical treatment in the country.
Support and Reactions
The Legal Rescue Foundation issued a statement expressing gratitude for the concern shown towards Roque Cabello's health, indicating that any updates will be provided solely by her medical team. They also requested respect for her privacy and encouraged prayers and well-wishes for her swift recovery.
Fellow opposition figure and former political prisoner, Ángel Moya, highlighted that her health remains "of concern." Her move to Miami has sparked support from activists and international human rights organizations.
Hospitalization and Health Challenges
At 79, Roque Cabello had been hospitalized since late January in various medical facilities in Havana due to complications from her unmanaged diabetes and kidney failure. Her treatment journey included the Miguel Enríquez Hospital, followed by the nephrology unit at Manuel Fajardo Hospital, and finally, the Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital, where she was discharged on February 14.
Her condition was initially deemed "severe with reserved prognosis," which later stabilized to "severe but stable," and eventually to "concerning with a favorable outlook." She also battled a urinary tract infection and bronchopneumonia, from which she recovered.
During her hospitalization, there were reports of constant State Security agents' presence, underscoring the ongoing harassment she faces as an opposition figure.
A Life of Resistance and Persecution
Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello is among the most iconic figures in Cuban dissidence. An economist by profession, she has spent over four decades championing human rights in Cuba, continuously facing persecution from the regime.
She was the only woman imprisoned during the 2003 Black Spring, where 75 dissidents were arrested on charges of conspiring with the U.S. government. Sentenced to 20 years, she was released in 2004 on medical parole, though never acquitted of the charges.
Prior to this, in 1997, she co-founded the Internal Dissidence Working Group and signed the manifesto "La Patria es de todos," advocating for economic and political openness in Cuba. This resulted in a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence on charges of "sedition" and "attack" against state security.
Since her release in 2004, Roque has been active with the Ladies in White movement and led the Cuban Network of Community Communicators. In 2005, she organized a national gathering to bolster civil society, involving delegates from across the island and international guests. Recently, she has directed the Cuban Center for Human Rights, documenting political prisoners in Cuba.
International Recognition
Her relentless efforts have garnered international acclaim. In March 2024, the U.S. Department of State awarded her the International Women of Courage Award, an honor given to over 190 women worldwide since 2007. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend the ceremony due to her status as "regulated," a category used by the Cuban regime to prevent activists from leaving the country.
In 2007, she was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for her dedication to democracy in Cuba. Her legacy of resilience and commitment to human rights has left a lasting impact on Cuba's dissident history.
FAQs on Martha Beatriz Roque's Health and Advocacy
What led to Martha Beatriz Roque's travel to the United States?
Martha Beatriz Roque traveled to the United States to receive specialized medical treatment due to her fragile health condition, which includes complications from diabetes and kidney failure.
What are some key achievements of Martha Beatriz Roque in her activism?
Martha Beatriz Roque is known for co-founding the Internal Dissidence Working Group, signing the manifesto "La Patria es de todos," and actively participating in the Ladies in White movement. Her work has been internationally recognized, including a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize and receiving the International Women of Courage Award.