Cuban artist and political prisoner Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara has initiated a voluntary hunger strike from his prison cell in Cuba on December 1, 2025. This act of protest is in response to his unjust imprisonment and the severe human rights violations occurring throughout the country.
A statement posted on his Facebook profile, authored by Claudia Genlui and Yanelys Núñez, notes that Otero Alcántara, the founder of the San Isidro Movement, turns 38 on December 2. However, he has chosen to forgo family visits as part of his protest.
“This marks the fifth consecutive birthday he spends behind bars, separated from his family, his life, and his work. Five years in which the Cuban state has deprived him of time, projects, relationships, and freedom,” reads the statement.
Growing Concerns Over Political Imprisonments
The publication reveals that over 1,700 political prisoners are currently detained in Cuban jails for demanding rights and liberties. “Meanwhile, the country is enduring the most severe economic, social, and humanitarian crisis in its recent history,” the statement adds.
Among the dire cases highlighted is that of political prisoner Yosvany Rosell García Caso, who has been on a hunger strike for more than 40 days.
The Reality of Prison Protests in Cuba
Although Otero Alcántara referred to his protest as a "hunger strike," the statement clarifies that within Cuban prison contexts, this term is often used to avoid retaliation and can signify a more extreme protest.
A hunger strike involves partial abstention from food, whereas a full hunger protest includes complete refusal of food and liquids, posing serious risks to life.
Fellow rapper and political prisoner Maykel “Osorbo” Castillo has also voiced his commitment to freedom. From the 5 y Medio prison, he sent a letter, shared by El Funky on Facebook, reaffirming his dedication to the cause.
“I wish no one ever had to choose between life and freedom. I wish we could have our country back in our hands,” wrote El Funky, introducing his friend's words from prison.
Frequently Asked Questions about Political Protests in Cuba
What is the San Isidro Movement?
The San Isidro Movement is an activist group in Cuba that focuses on advocating for artistic freedom and political change, often challenging the Cuban government.
Why are hunger strikes used as a form of protest in Cuban prisons?
Hunger strikes are employed as a peaceful method to draw attention to unjust imprisonment and human rights abuses. In the Cuban prison context, they serve as a powerful tool to spotlight the plight of political prisoners.
Who is Yosvany Rosell García Caso?
Yosvany Rosell García Caso is a Cuban political prisoner known for his extended hunger strike, serving as a protest against his imprisonment and the broader political situation in Cuba.