This past Sunday marked two months since the release of Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer from prison. In a Thursday interview with CiberCuba, the Sakharov Prize nominee evaluated the circumstances surrounding his release—a deal brokered by the regime with the Vatican that concluded this week. He criticized the European Union and Canada's support of the dictatorship and called for "genuine support" from the United States. Responding to his critics, Ferrer stated, "Those who have slandered me have never confronted the enemy as this humble servant has."
In response to questions from the platform, Ferrer outlined his vision for Cuba—a prosperous and democratic nation inclusive of all, even communists, who would be free to express and promote their ideas. However, he warned that those with blood on their hands from the dictatorship will face justice.
Ferrer emphasized that the Communist Party of Cuba remains in power due to financial backing from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and Venezuela. He argued that Western Hemisphere well-being requires more than sanctions against PCC officials; rather, "real support" for political prisoners languishing in jails, independent media, and those tirelessly working toward democracy on the island is crucial.
Leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (Unpacu), Ferrer anticipates that protests like the recent one in Río Cauto will spread nationwide, driven by widespread hunger among the vulnerable. From his home in Altamira, Santiago de Cuba, he distributes up to 330 meals daily, despite pressures from political police who threaten those seeking food and attempt to uncover who supplies Ferrer with groceries to confiscate rice sacks and cooking pots.
During the CiberCuba interview, Ferrer expressed gratitude for the support of anonymous Cubans and others, including Diazniurka Salcedo, who send medicine and funds to sustain his humanitarian efforts in Santiago.
When asked about his release, Ferrer attributed it to the fair awarding of the Sakharov Prize to Venezuelan leaders María Corina Machado and Edmundo González. He speculated that fears of him potentially receiving the prize in 2025, as Oswaldo Payá, Las Damas de Blanco, and Guillermo Fariñas have, influenced the decision to free him. His family’s persistent media advocacy also played a role.
Ferrer, aware of the possibility of returning to prison, dedicates 16 hours daily to aiding the underprivileged despite frequent blackouts. He sends a message to those who criticize his willingness to forgive if it facilitates the release of political prisoners and Cuba's freedom. He asserted that personal pain will not hinder the country's democratic transition, similar to Spain's post-Franco transition.
He emphasized that those who have not led an opposition group in Cuba or endured beatings, losing teeth as he has, cannot understand his position and should refrain from calling him a "traitor" or "dialoguer." Ferrer lamented his inability to spend more time with his family, feeling he hasn't been the best father or taught his youngest to swim. He sees this as his Achilles' heel, though no one can dispute his fight for democracy in Cuba.
Insights into José Daniel Ferrer's Struggle for Cuban Democracy
What is José Daniel Ferrer's vision for Cuba?
Ferrer envisions a prosperous, democratic Cuba inclusive of all, even communists, but insists those with blood-stained hands from the dictatorship must face justice.
Why does Ferrer believe Cuba's regime remains in power?
Ferrer asserts that the regime stays in power due to financial support from countries like Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and Venezuela, rather than internal strength.
How does José Daniel Ferrer contribute to his community?
Ferrer distributes up to 330 meals daily to the vulnerable in Altamira, Santiago de Cuba, despite facing pressure from political police.