On Saturday, Jenni M. Taboada shared a poignant message on her public Facebook profile after visiting Combinado del Este prison in Havana, where her son, Duannis Dabel León Taboada, a political prisoner from the July 11 protests, has been held for nearly five years.
"What can heal a bleeding soul?... Three months have passed without seeing you, my dear son. Today I understood that I won't see you again until you're free... Today was the visiting day, and I could only bring food; I didn't see him," wrote the mother, sharing a photo of herself depicting sorrow and the symbol of Freedom.
Reports from February of this year indicate that Duannis is voluntarily refusing family visits, phone calls, and other prison benefits as a form of silent protest for his release, which explains the lack of a reunion.
Background of Duannis Dabel León Taboada
Duannis, who is 24 years old, was arrested on July 16, 2021, five days after the historic July 11 demonstrations, in the Diez de Octubre municipality of Havana.
Initially sentenced to 21 years in prison for sedition, accused of damaging a police vehicle, his sentence was reduced to 14 years after an appeal. His family maintains that he only participated in peaceful protests.
Repercussions and Challenges Faced by the Family
The family's struggles have been ongoing. In July 2025, Duannis started a 12-day hunger strike at Combinado del Este, ending it on July 30 after his mother's visit. In August of the same year, he faced punitive measures by prison officials, and in September, his sister was attacked by five women in Havana. In February 2026, an officer assaulted him, leading to his transfer to solitary confinement.
On January 19, 2026, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights granted precautionary measures for Duannis and his mother, acknowledging severe and irreparable risks to their lives, integrity, and health. These measures also extended to Jenni M. Taboada due to threats from State Security agents.
Recent Developments Amidst Political Context
Her message comes three days after the Cuban regime announced a pardon for 2,010 prisoners, touted as a humanitarian gesture during Easter.
However, this pardon specifically excludes those convicted of "crimes against authority," a category under which most of the 11J prisoners, including Duannis, were prosecuted.
Human rights organizations report alarming figures: Justicia 11J has documented at least 760 political prisoners in Cuba, 358 of whom are from the July 11 protests, while Prisoners Defenders lists a total of 1,214.
Key Questions About Cuba's Political Prisoners
Why is Duannis Dabel León Taboada imprisoned?
Duannis was sentenced to 21 years for sedition, accused of damaging a police vehicle during peaceful protests. His sentence was later reduced to 14 years.
What measures has the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights taken?
The Commission granted precautionary measures for Duannis and his mother, recognizing significant risks to their lives, integrity, and health due to threats and mistreatment.
How many political prisoners are currently in Cuba?
Organizations like Justicia 11J report approximately 760 political prisoners, with Prisoners Defenders listing up to 1,214 in total.