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The Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer denounced this Friday that he has been subjected to harassment and repression by the State Security and the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) for over a month, with the aim of preventing him from continuing to provide assistance to vulnerable individuals in Santiago de Cuba.
Through his social media, Ferrer shared images of PNR agents in the vicinity of his home in the Altamira neighborhood, where he claimed that authorities are harassing those who try to visit him or offer assistance. According to the opposition figure, the political police remain hidden but are monitoring these repressive actions in an attempt to isolate him and hinder his solidarity work.
A pattern of increasing harassment
This complaint is not new. Since his release last January, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) has been subjected to an increasing repressive siege. In early February, in statements to Martí Noticias, he reported that the authorities were using individuals with mental disorders and alcoholics to attack him, as well as threatening those who provided him with basic services. At that time, he stated that anyone who tried to help him was intercepted and intimidated by State Security.
Weeks later, Ferrer again exposed the harassment after having managed to feed more than 260 needy individuals. On his social media, he expressed gratitude for the solidarity of those who support him, but denounced that the regime had intensified the obstacles to continue his humanitarian work. According to Ferrer, the authorities have even tried to prevent people from reaching the aid distribution points.
This Thursday, Ferrer reported that State Security is not only surrounding him but also intimidating his neighbors. According to his testimony, several people who visit him have been summoned and threatened, and personal belongings of those who provide him services have been confiscated, as in the case of a technician who repaired an electric pot for him.
In addition to physical harassment, Ferrer has reported death threats and a disinformation campaign against him, in which he has been accused of various crimes in an effort to discredit him. Despite this, he has reaffirmed his commitment to the fight for democracy and the defense of human rights in Cuba.
Solidarity and resistance
Despite the increase in repression, Ferrer has stated that he will not yield to the regime's pressures and will continue his work aiding those in need. He has also called on the international community to pay attention to what is happening in Santiago de Cuba and to denounce the use of repressive tactics to silence opposition voices.
Ferrer’s complaints reflect the repressive pattern that the Cuban regime maintains against activists and opponents, resorting to intimidation, constant surveillance, and harassment of their surroundings in order to isolate them and restrict their activities. His case remains an example of the human cost of repression on the island and the importance of global solidarity to protect those who fight for freedom in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer and Repression in Cuba
Why is José Daniel Ferrer being harassed by the Cuban regime?
José Daniel Ferrer is being harassed by the Cuban regime due to his humanitarian work and political opposition. As the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), Ferrer has denounced the constant harassment by State Security and the Revolutionary National Police, who seek to prevent his assistance to vulnerable individuals and silence his pro-democracy activism.
What kind of repression is José Daniel Ferrer facing?
José Daniel Ferrer faces physical repression, intimidation of his surroundings, and constant surveillance. He has reported that his home is under police watch and that both he and his collaborators are targets of threats, confiscation of belongings, and harassment. Furthermore, he has received death threats and is subjected to a disinformation campaign against him.
How has José Daniel Ferrer reacted to the threats from the Cuban regime?
José Daniel Ferrer has responded with strength and commitment to the threats from the Cuban regime. Despite the harassment, he has reaffirmed his determination to continue his humanitarian work and his fight for democracy in Cuba. He has called on the international community to pay attention to the repression on the island and to support dissidents and human rights defenders.
What actions has the Cuban regime taken to silence José Daniel Ferrer?
The Cuban regime has intensified harassment and surveillance against José Daniel Ferrer. This includes legal summonses, threats to his neighbors and collaborators, and the use of drones to monitor his home. Furthermore, they have attempted to discredit him through unfounded accusations and disinformation campaigns.
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