Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer, detained in the Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba, confirmed that he was the victim of a brutal beating on November 18, carried out by military personnel serving the communist regime of Havana.
Through the social network X, the complaint was made by his sister, Ana Belkis Ferrer García, who provided additional details about the reality of the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (Unpacu).
Ferrer was able to communicate by phone with Yusmila Reyna Ferrera, the mother of his daughter Ana Laura, to recount what had happened and requested that she inform his wife, Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo, that he could receive a conjugal visit authorized by the prison authorities.
For the past two weeks, it has been known that the opposition member sustained an injury to his face after being brutally assaulted, but the news was fully confirmed by him.
The opposition leader's sister labeled those responsible as "miserable and cowardly murderers" and demanded justice for Ferrer and other political prisoners, as well as for the victims of repression in Cuba.
The report once again highlights the critical situation of political prisoners on the island and the ongoing allegations of human rights violations by the Cuban regime.
International organizations and activists have called for intensified efforts to bring these allegations to light and demand justice.
The leader of Unpacu was arrested on July 11, 2021, for attempting to join the popular protests taking place that day.
He is serving a four-year prison sentence imposed in February 2020 for the alleged crime of "injuries and deprivation of liberty" against a third party.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of José Daniel Ferrer and Political Prisoners in Cuba
What happened to José Daniel Ferrer in the prison in Santiago de Cuba?
José Daniel Ferrer was the victim of a brutal beating in Mar Verde prison, Santiago de Cuba, on November 18. This attack was carried out by military personnel in the service of the Cuban regime and has been reported by his family and international organizations.
What is the current situation of José Daniel Ferrer following the beating?
After the beating, José Daniel Ferrer was transferred to the hospital at the Boniato prison due to his injuries. Although his family tried to obtain direct information about his health, they were only allowed to see him "from a distance," which has raised concerns about his well-being.
Why was José Daniel Ferrer arrested?
José Daniel Ferrer was arrested on July 11, 2021, for attempting to join the popular protests that took place that day in Cuba. He is currently serving a four-year prison sentence, imposed in February 2020, for the alleged crime of "causing injuries and deprivation of liberty."
How has the international community reacted to Ferrer's situation?
The international community has condemned the aggression suffered by Ferrer. U.S. officials, such as Brian Nichols, have called on the Cuban government to allow immediate access for Ferrer’s family and to release him along with other unjustly detained political prisoners.
What complaints has José Daniel Ferrer's family made?
Ferrer’s family, including his sister and wife, have denounced the inhumane conditions and torture he is enduring in prison. They have also demanded proof of life and the immediate release of Ferrer, as well as all political prisoners in Cuba.
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