The Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) has confirmed that at least 11 political prisoners have been released in Cuba following the regime's resumption of granting penitentiary benefits after more than a month-long halt. The organization continues to demand the full release of all political prisoners on the island, as these recent releases do not amount to an amnesty or pardon.
In recent developments, Justicia 11J has verified the release of several protesters, including:
Geovani Sepúlveda Martínez, an independent journalist and opposition figure, was detained in Camagüey during the 2021 protests. He suffered epileptic seizures due to beatings received in prison. He was sentenced to 4 years and 4 months for "assault and contempt."
Omar Herrera Moré faced a military tribunal for his involvement in the protests in Colón, Matanzas. Originally facing a 12-year sentence, he was ultimately convicted to 11 years for "sabotage and public disorder."
Abel Lázaro Machado Conde, a protester from the 11J demonstrations in Güines, Mayabeque, initially received a 16-year prison term, which was reduced to 9 years for "public disorder and sabotage."
Luis Armando Cruz Aguilera was arrested in Havana at the age of 21 in 2021. He was sentenced to 15 years for "sedition," but after an appeal, his sentence was reduced to 10 years. During his imprisonment, he experienced beatings, solitary confinement, and was moved to a high-security prison.
Lázaro Antonio Rodríguez Jeréz, detained in Güira de Melena, Artemisa, at 21 years old, initially faced a 13-year sentence but was ultimately sentenced to 10 years for "sabotage and public disorder." His appeal did not alter his sentence.
Previously, Yunaiky de la Caridad Linares Rodríguez and Andy Alexis Martín Pérez were released after serving several years. Linares Rodríguez suffered from thyroid issues and reported a lack of medical care in prison, alongside repeated solitary confinement. Martín Pérez was released under similar circumstances, as part of the same group of recently freed individuals.
Iván Mauricio Arocha Arocha, Brusnelvis Adrián Cabrera Gutiérrez, Ohaurys Rondón Rivero, and Yaquelin Castillo García were released the prior Thursday.
The Cuban regime maintains that these releases are part of a process of granting penitentiary benefits, which are subject to strict conditions. Maricela Sosa Ravelo, Vice President of the Supreme Court, clarified that these are not pardons, and the released individuals could be returned to prison if they fail to meet "good behavior" requirements.
During a state television program, presenter Humberto López reiterated that these releases could be revoked, accusing activists of encouraging the freed individuals to defy the imposed conditions. The official narrative emphasizes the warning that those who do not adhere to the restrictions could face reincarceration.
Understanding the Release of Political Prisoners in Cuba
What is the current situation regarding political prisoners in Cuba?
At least 11 political prisoners have been released in Cuba as the regime resumes its process of granting penitentiary benefits. However, these releases do not constitute an amnesty, and the conditions of their release are stringent.
Why are the recent releases of political prisoners in Cuba not considered an amnesty?
The releases are part of a process of penitentiary benefits that are conditional and can be revoked. The Cuban government has stated that these are not amnesties, and the released individuals must adhere to strict behavior guidelines to avoid reincarceration.
Who is Geovani Sepúlveda Martínez and why was he imprisoned in Cuba?
Geovani Sepúlveda Martínez is an independent journalist and opposition figure who was arrested during the 2021 protests in Camagüey. He was sentenced to 4 years and 4 months for "assault and contempt" and suffered health issues due to mistreatment in prison.