Raúl Borges Álvarez, a Cuban dissident and human rights activist known for his relentless campaign for his son's release, passed away in Havana on Sunday at the age of 86 after being hospitalized for over a month at the facility known as La Covadonga.
The President of the Continental Peace Association (ASOPAZCO), Mari Paz Martínez Nieto, confirmed Borges' death to Radio Martí, remembering him as a steadfast voice in highlighting the plight of political prisoners in Cuba.
Borges maintained close ties with Martínez Nieto for nearly 15 years, providing her with updates on the conditions faced by his son and other inmates. "He was the one who sent me reports about how his son and others were faring in prison during those times," Martínez Nieto recounted from Madrid.
These insights, referred to by Martínez Nieto as "Raúl's chronicles," became vital documentation for ASOPAZCO's advocacy work. Borges also engaged with church representatives and U.S. officials to keep his son's case in the spotlight.
The Struggle for Justice
Borges, who led the Christian Democratic Unity Party of Cuba, dedicated his life to the cause of freeing his son, Ernesto Borges Pérez. Ernesto had been detained in 1998 while serving as a captain in the Ministry of the Interior's Counterintelligence Directorate. He was accused of attempted espionage for trying to pass a list of Cuban agents to U.S. diplomats. Initially sentenced to death, his punishment was later reduced to 30 years in prison.
The long-awaited moment arrived on April 24, 2025, when Ernesto was released after nearly 27 years behind bars. Raúl himself shared the joyous news: "We are very happy to have my son home," he announced. In that same conversation, he expressed sorrow that Ernesto's mother had passed away without seeing her son free.
Health Challenges and Final Days
"The day of his release was a celebration because Raúl was already very ill," Martínez Nieto recalled. The reunion between father and son, she added, "was like a revival, a moment to celebrate."
Borges' final months were marked by worsening health and a dire shortage of essential medications. "There was no way to get gauze, no way to obtain the antibiotics he needed," Martínez Nieto lamented, adding that frequent power outages left him without the necessary respiratory support.
ASOPAZCO facilitated Borges' travel to Spain for medical treatment about 16 years before his death, allowing him to receive a heart valve replacement and the placement of four stents.
Martínez Nieto described the efforts of those who supported Borges in his last days as "a relentless fight to provide him with the bare minimum of comfort."
Frequently Asked Questions About Raúl Borges' Legacy and Advocacy
Who was Raúl Borges Álvarez?
Raúl Borges Álvarez was a Cuban dissident and human rights advocate, most notable for his efforts to secure the release of his son, Ernesto Borges Pérez, a former political prisoner.
What role did Raúl Borges play in advocating for political prisoners?
Borges was a prominent voice against the Cuban regime's treatment of political prisoners, constantly highlighting their plight and working with international organizations to bring attention to their cases.
How did ASOPAZCO assist Raúl Borges?
ASOPAZCO supported Borges in his advocacy efforts and facilitated his travel to Spain for crucial medical treatment that he could not receive in Cuba.