The leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), José Daniel Ferrer, denounced that State Security and the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) have intensified repression against his surroundings in Santiago de Cuba, citing, threatening, and detaining people who frequent his home.
Ferrer showed in several posts on his social media how, in the last ten days, several people have been threatened because of their relationship with him or for providing some type of service to him.
Persecution and threats in Cuba
The opposition leader shared the testimony of one of the victims of this repressive strategy. Yarisleidis Richard Rodríguez is a single mother with a five-year-old child who was detained for being a friend of the Ferrer family. State Security warned her that she could only continue visiting their home if she collaborated with the regime as an informant; otherwise, she would be imprisoned.
Another case mentioned by Ferrer relates to the arbitrary seizure of personal property. "Yesterday afternoon, they took an electric pot belonging to us from a technician who was repairing it for us," the opposition member reported on X. The repression extends even to those providing basic services to their families.
Constant surveillance and harassment
The repressive actions against Ferrer and his surroundings have intensified in recent days, with the constant presence of State Security agents and the National Police outside his home. These forces intercept and threaten anyone trying to enter or leave his residence.
The harassment by the police affects the neighbors, taxi drivers, motorcyclists, and self-employed individuals who provide services to Ferrer's family, a strategy that seeks to isolate him and complicate his daily life. Despite the fear and repression, the Santiago community continues to reach out to the opposition leader’s door, showing affection and support.
Death threats and disinformation
Ferrer also reported that he has received information about death threats against him, made by agents of the regime to his supporters.
"Every day I receive information that people are being told they are going to kill me, that they are going to make me disappear, or that they are going to imprison me again," he posted on Facebook.
This is compounded by a defamation campaign against him, where he has been accused of terrorism and even sexual crimes. "Soon they will be saying that I burned the Indian Hatuey," Ferrer scoffed.
The opposition member reaffirmed his commitment to the struggle for freedom in Cuba, making it clear that he will not yield to the regime's threats.
Frequently Asked Questions about the repression against José Daniel Ferrer and the opposition environment in Cuba
How is the Cuban regime using intimidation against José Daniel Ferrer and his surroundings?
The Cuban regime uses repression against both José Daniel Ferrer and the people around him, including threats, constant surveillance, and the confiscation of personal belongings. State Security and the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) have intensified these intimidating actions to isolate the opposition leader and complicate his daily life.
What tactics does the Cuban regime use to silence José Daniel Ferrer and other opponents?
The Cuban regime resorts to intimidation tactics such as death threats, drone surveillance, internet access restrictions, and smear campaigns to discredit Ferrer and other opponents. These measures aim to silence critical voices and limit the mobilization capacity of pro-democracy activists on the island.
What has José Daniel Ferrer reported regarding the treatment of his collaborators and neighbors?
José Daniel Ferrer has reported that his collaborators, neighbors, and service providers are being persecuted and threatened by the regime. The regime seeks to isolate him through the intimidation of those around him, even carrying out arbitrary detentions and confiscations of personal property to instill fear and discourage support for his cause.
What is the impact of repression on the daily life of José Daniel Ferrer and his surroundings?
The repression has created an environment of fear and insecurity for both José Daniel Ferrer and the people who support him, impacting their daily lives and their ability to engage in opposition activities. Despite this, Ferrer remains committed to his struggle for freedom and democracy in Cuba.
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