The Cuban opposition figure Jorge Cervantes García is facing a new chapter in his complicated migration situation after being deported from the United States to Mexico and now facing the possibility of being forcibly returned to Cuba.
Cervantes García, political prisoner and member of the opposition Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), arrived in the United States from Mexico on January 24, surrendering to immigration authorities in search of political asylum.
However, the next day, he was returned to Reynosa, Mexico. There, he was informed that he would be transferred to Tabasco to be processed and eventually deported to Cuba, a decision that has raised concerns among members of the Cuban dissidence.
The movement Cuba Primero issued a statement condemning the situation, describing it as a "serious injustice."
In a statement, they noted: "From the Cuba Primero movement, we denounce the grave injustice faced by our member and activist Jorge Cervantes García. On January 24, he arrived in the United States seeking protection, but was immediately deported to Reynosa on January 25. He is now set to be sent to Tabasco to be processed and deported to Cuba, putting his life at risk."
Likewise, the movement made an urgent appeal to the international community and human rights defenders to intervene: “We demand immediate action! Jorge has been a victim of retaliation for his fight for the freedom of Cuba and needs everyone's support. We ask the international community and human rights defenders to take action. We cannot remain silent”.
The Cuban digital artist Ricky Castillo joined the criticism regarding the handling of the case and denounced the situation through a message on his Facebook profile, in which he described the decision to deport Cervantes García as a direct threat to his life.
Castillo recalled that the opposition member had already been deported three months ago from a prison to Guyana and that his activism has made him a constant target of reprisals from the Cuban regime.
"This decision puts his life in danger!", he pointed out, calling on the international community to demand justice and protection for the activist.
For his part, the Cuban opposition member Diosmel Rodríguez called on the international community to spread the word about the case of Cervantes García as much as possible.
Cervantes García, father of two young children, was exiled on September 10th, without prior notice. The authorities escorted the opposition figure until he boarded a plane, reported the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) at that time.
The political express was an uncomfortable presence for the Cuban dictatorship due to its denunciations on social media. As a result, it was a frequent target of State Security and faced threats and imprisonment.
Since its arrival on January 20, the Donald Trump administration has implemented a series of stricter immigration policies that have directly impacted thousands of migrants stranded in Mexico, including many Cubans.
The Mexican government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, has chosen to repatriate the affected migrants to their countries of origin, in coordination with the nations involved.
According to data released by the president in her regular daily press conference, "Mexico received over 4,000 migrants deported from the U.S. between January 20 and 26, including nationals from other countries."
In the case of Cuba, an agreement has been established to facilitate the return of Cuban migrants who were stranded due to the new restrictions imposed by the U.S. government.
This situation has raised concerns among Cuban migrants, who fear facing reprisals upon returning to the country.
Human rights advocacy organizations have expressed their alarm over the potential violations of the rights of these individuals and have urged both Mexican and U.S. authorities to reconsider the policies that force migrants to return to potentially dangerous situations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deportation of Jorge Cervantes García
Who is Jorge Cervantes García?
Jorge Cervantes García is a Cuban opposition figure and political prisoner, a member of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU). He has been a prominent activist against the Cuban regime, facing reprisals, threats, and imprisonment due to his struggle for freedom and human rights on the island.
Why was Jorge Cervantes García deported to Mexico?
Jorge Cervantes García was deported to Mexico from the United States after surrendering to immigration authorities in search of political asylum. The day after his arrival in the U.S., he was sent back to Mexico, where he faces the possibility of being processed and deported to Cuba, raising concerns among the Cuban dissidence.
What is the stance of the international community regarding the situation of Jorge Cervantes García?
The international community, including human rights defending organizations, has expressed concern about the situation of Jorge Cervantes García. An urgent call has been made for intervention and protection for the activist, who has been a victim of reprisals for his fight against the Cuban regime.
What measures have Cuban opposition movements taken in support of Jorge Cervantes García?
The Cuba Primero movement has condemned the situation faced by Jorge Cervantes García, describing it as a "serious injustice." They have called upon the international community and human rights defenders to demand justice and protection for the activist.
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