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The Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer, coordinator of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), recently reported that his home in Santiago de Cuba has been under surveillance by the political police using a drone.
Ferrer, who has been on probation since last January, alerted about the presence of the device flying over his residence and police elements near his home, pointing out that this action is part of the ongoing harassment and repression by the Cuban government against him.
Through his social media, Ferrer detailed the incident by stating that after hearing his son's dog barking and checking the yard, he realized that nothing justified his condition.
"Today, several neighbors explained to me that there was a political police drone over my roof and my yard, and several of its agents on our street. This against a peaceful Cuban who wants the best for our entire community. This, while murders and violent robberies are on the rise throughout the country," he stated in a social media post.
The report generated reactions within the Cuban opposition, including that of Rosa María Payá, a human rights activist and daughter of the late dissident Oswaldo Payá.
Payá criticized the surveillance of Ferrer and denounced the serious crisis that Cuba is facing in a post on his X account (formerly Twitter):
"People are dying of hunger, blackouts last 20 hours a day, hospitals are infested with rats, and DiazCanelB is busy flying drones over the family home of jdanielferrer. Incompetent and criminal."
On January 16, 2025, after more than three years in prison, José Daniel Ferrer was released as part of an agreement between the Cuban regime, the Vatican, and the United States, which involved the gradual release of 553 political prisoners.
After his release, Ferrer sent a message of strength and hope to the Cubans, urging them to lose their fear because "the oppressor is increasingly frightened."
He stated: "Do not be afraid to fight for a free, just, and prosperous Cuba, do not be afraid to work for a better future for all Cubans, so that we do not have to leave in search of freedom and better living conditions in other lands."
Despite his release, Ferrer has continued to face harassment from the authorities. On January 27, 2025, he refused a police summons in Santiago de Cuba, stating: "I am not going anywhere."
He reiterated his position of not collaborating with what he qualifies as repressive strategies of the Cuban regime and stated: "For the freedom and well-being of my people, I would give even my life. I am not afraid of prison."
Recently, the Cuban regime has restricted his access to the Internet, as reported by his wife, Ana Belkis Ferrer. This measure comes in a context where, following his release, Ferrer has continued his opposition work and has even refused summonses from the police and Cuban State Security.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of José Daniel Ferrer and Repression in Cuba
Why has José Daniel Ferrer reported being monitored by a drone?
José Daniel Ferrer has denounced surveillance by a drone from the Cuban political police as part of the ongoing harassment and repression he faces from the regime. This surveillance is yet another example of the repressive methods used by the Cuban government to silence opponents and limit their activities.
What is the current situation of José Daniel Ferrer after his release from prison?
After his release in January 2025, José Daniel Ferrer continues to face harassment from the Cuban authorities. Despite being on parole, he has reported constant surveillance, restrictions on Internet access, and reprisals against those who assist him, reflecting the tense political and social situation in Cuba.
How has the international community reacted to the repression in Cuba?
The international community has expressed concern over the repression situation in Cuba, particularly in cases such as that of José Daniel Ferrer. Human rights organizations and some governments have called for an end to the reprisals against political opponents and have demanded the release of all political prisoners, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity with those fighting for freedom on the island.
What challenges do opposition leaders in Cuba currently face?
Opposition leaders in Cuba face constant surveillance, harassment, and repression by the regime. Additionally, they are subjected to threats and limitations on their communications, such as the cutting off of Internet access. These challenges reflect the Cuban government's attempt to silence any critical voice and maintain strict control over dissent in the country.
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