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Independent journalist Henry Constantín, director of the digital outlet La Hora de Cuba, remains detained at the El Vivac detention center, located in the Arroyo Naranjo municipality of Havana, following his arrest on December 19.
In a phone call to the editorial office of the independent media outlet, Constantín reported that the prison authorities denied his transfer to Camagüey, his place of residence, on the morning of Wednesday, December 25.
According to his testimony, the bus responsible for transporting the detainees to the provinces left without including him in the trip, despite having been previously assured that he would be returned to Camagüey as soon as fuel became available.
Constantín's arrest occurred following the alleged violation of a legal order that prohibits him from staying in the Cuban capital. This measure, imposed by the Cuban regime, is part of the restrictions faced by the journalist due to his work in independent journalism.
On December 23rd, the team from La Hora de Cuba filed a Habeas Corpus petition with the Provincial Court of Havana, arguing that the detention is illegal and arbitrary.
Constantín is the regional vice president for Cuba of the Press Freedom Commission of the Inter-American Press Society, which exacerbates his situation in the context of the repression of the Cuban regime.
Henry Constantín was arrested on December 19, a day before the "March of the Combatant People" organized by the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.
According to La Hora de Cuba, State Security agents intercepted him outside a building. Before his arrest, the journalist managed to recount that the agents, one of whom had been involved in a previous detention in September 2023, approached him under the pretext of wanting to "talk."
Since then, Constantín has remained cut off from communication on several occasions.
The case of Henry Constantín is another example of the systematic harassment faced by independent journalism in Cuba. Throughout his career, the journalist has suffered reprisals, including arbitrary detention, equipment confiscation, and restrictions on movement, due to his commitment to highlighting social and political issues that are generally censored by official media.
His detention occurs against a backdrop of increasing repression against dissenting voices in Cuba, as the country faces prolonged blackouts and an unprecedented fuel crisis.
Frequently asked questions about the detention of Henry Constantín and repression in Cuba
Why was journalist Henry Constantín detained in Havana?
Henry Constantín was detained in Havana by State Security. His arrest is part of a systematic pattern of harassment against independent journalism in Cuba. According to La Hora de Cuba, which he directs, this detention occurred a day before the "March of the Combatant People," suggesting an attempt to silence dissenting voices ahead of government-controlled events.
What is the current situation of press freedom in Cuba?
Press freedom in Cuba is severely restricted. The Cuban government systematically represses independent journalists, employing tactics such as arbitrary detentions, equipment confiscation, and threats. This repression has intensified with new laws that criminalize the receipt of foreign funds and further restrict freedom of expression.
How does the Cuban regime's repression manifest against protestors?
The Cuban regime employs arbitrary detentions and violence to suppress protests. Security forces detain demonstrators, often charging them with offenses such as public disorder. These actions are particularly common during protests related to blackouts and other crises, such as fuel shortages, which have intensified social discontent on the island.
What role does State Security play in repression in Cuba?
The State Security is a key instrument in the repression of the Cuban regime. This entity conducts constant surveillance, arbitrary detentions, and psychological coercion to silence critics and opponents of the government. Its aim is to maintain control over information and deter any dissent or protest.
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