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The U.S. congresswoman María Elvira Salazar expressed her satisfaction following the release of Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer, who had been imprisoned for three and a half years under the regime of Miguel Díaz-Canel.
In his first public statements, Salazar asserted that the news of Ferrer's release is a "great joy," but he also emphasized that the fight for true freedom in Cuba continues.
"My friend José Daniel Ferrer should never have been imprisoned," Salazar stated. "I am glad to know he is with his family, but let's not forget what he endured during four years in Castro's prison."
"The day of true freedom for Ferrer and millions of Cubans is approaching. And then we will celebrate it!" declared the congresswoman.
In his message, Salazar also lamented that, from his perspective, Ferrer and other opponents were used as "pawns" in a political game by the regime, which sought to exchange them for Cuba's removal from the list of countries sponsoring terrorism.
For his part, Republican Senator Rick Scott also celebrated Ferrer's release, noting that his prayers and efforts have finally borne fruit.
"Thank God, José Daniel Ferrer has been released. My calls and the prayers of so many have been answered. I will continue to fight until all political prisoners in Cuba are free. José has faced unimaginable persecution and torture for daring to speak out against the Cuban communist regime. He must remain a free man!" said Scott on his social media.
José Daniel Ferrer, who was arrested on July 12, 2021, after the protests of July 11, offered a message of strength and hope to the Cuban people in his first statements after being released from prison.
The leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) called on his compatriots not to be afraid to fight for a free and just Cuba.
"To my people, to the Cubans on the island and also to those in exile, my message is simple: do not be afraid to fight for a free, just, and prosperous Cuba," Ferrer said to Martí Noticias.
"The oppressor is increasingly frightened, more weakened, and as we confront him with dignity and courage, the shorter his existence will be. Cuba will change, and together we can put an end to oppression, misery, and widespread poverty," he emphasized.
José Daniel Ferrer, 54 years old, was recognized by Amnesty International as a "prisoner of conscience" due to his activism against the Cuban regime.
For years, he has been a victim of arbitrary arrests, political persecution, and reprisals due to his steadfast opposition.
His imprisonment in 2021 was part of the response of the Cuban government to the massive protests on July 11, in which thousands of Cubans demanded an end to the dictatorship and better living conditions.
Rosa María Payá, an activist and leader of the Youth Awakening Movement, also expressed her pride on social media for Ferrer's steadfastness. "I just spoke with José Daniel Ferrer. The repressors had to release him from prison because he refused to accept conditions for his freedom. Firm and ready to continue the fight until Cuba is free!" wrote Payá.
This week, the Cuban regime announced that it would release 553 prisoners following an agreement with the Vatican, which included the removal of the island from the list of countries that sponsor terrorism.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Release of José Daniel Ferrer and the Political Situation in Cuba
Who is José Daniel Ferrer and why was he imprisoned?
José Daniel Ferrer is a prominent Cuban opposition leader and founder of the Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU). He was imprisoned on July 12, 2021, due to his participation in the anti-government protests of July 11 (11J). His activism in favor of human rights and his firm opposition to the Cuban regime have led to multiple arrests and retaliation. Amnesty International has regarded him as a "prisoner of conscience."
What was the reason for the recent release of José Daniel Ferrer?
The release of José Daniel Ferrer is part of an agreement between the Cuban regime, the Vatican, and the United States, which included the release of 553 political prisoners. Ferrer was released after three and a half years in prison, although he himself did not accept the conditions of probation imposed, maintaining his innocence regarding the charges against him.
What do international leaders think about Ferrer's release?
International leaders such as U.S. Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and Senator Rick Scott have expressed their satisfaction with Ferrer's release, but emphasize that the fight for Cuba's complete freedom continues. They criticize the Cuban regime for using opponents as "pawns" in political games and demand the release of all political prisoners on the island.
How has prison affected José Daniel Ferrer and what accusations has he made?
During his imprisonment, Ferrer reported having been subjected to inhumane conditions and torture. He has reported beatings and the administration of substances that caused him to hallucinate. These allegations have raised international concern about his well-being and have prompted calls for his release from human rights organizations.
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