The independent journalist Camila Acosta reported on May 20th, Cuba's Independence Day, that she is under arbitrary police surveillance at her home, in a further act of systematic harassment against critical voices of the Havana regime.
"Today I have police surveillance outside my house. There are six people: a patrol with two uniformed officers, three women dressed in civilian clothing (from the group known as Las Marianas, responsible for repressing female opponents), and at least one State Security officer in plain clothes, hiding around the corner," Acosta wrote on Facebook.
In this regard, the site Cubanet reported the situation on social media X: The entire country is in darkness, there is no food, people barely sleep, the dictators only demand more "resistance" and blame the "blockade"; yet they have resources to suppress a dissenting woman.
123 years later, repression instead of freedom
This May 20th marks 123 years since the founding of the Republic of Cuba, when in 1902 the national flag was raised for the first time in a formally free nation. However, the date is overlooked by the official apparatus and is often marked by repressive operations against activists, journalists, and dissenters.
"The dictatorship, the same one that interrupted that republican process, seeks to erase this significant date. Instead, it suppresses those who think differently," the reporter denounced.
Acosta pointed out that these types of restrictive measures are not exceptional; rather, they occur every year on symbolic dates as part of a strategy to silence political dissent.
"Although trapped in my house, I am free."
In a message of personal resistance, the journalist reaffirmed her commitment to the truth: “Even though I am arbitrarily imprisoned in my home, I am free because I express what I think, because I defend the values I believe in, and because I strive to be a force of change for my country.”
Cuba continues to be one of the most repressive countries for the practice of independent journalism in Latin America, with arbitrary detentions, surveillance, threats, forced exile, and internet shutdowns as common tools of state control.
Currently, the regime has imprisoned more than a thousand people who raised their voices and denounced that failed state.
Frequently Asked Questions about Repression in Cuba and the Situation of Independent Journalists
What happened to journalist Camila Acosta on Cuba's Independence Day?
Camila Acosta reported that she was under arbitrary police surveillance at her home. Six individuals, including uniformed officers and State Security agents, were monitoring her, which constitutes a systematic act of harassment against critical voices of the Cuban regime.
Why does the Cuban regime intensify repression on symbolic dates?
The Cuban regime intensifies repression on symbolic dates such as Independence Day to silence political dissent and erase the historical memory of key moments that contrast with its official narrative. These actions aim to prevent activists, journalists, and opponents from celebrating or commemorating events that do not align with the government's interests.
What is the current situation of independent journalism in Cuba?
Cuba is one of the most repressive countries for independent journalism in Latin America. The repression includes arbitrary detentions, surveillance, threats, forced exile, and internet shutdowns. These tactics aim to dismantle any critical initiatives against the regime and limit freedom of expression on the island.
How does repression affect human rights in Cuba?
The repression in Cuba severely affects human rights, by criminalizing activism and freedom of expression. Opponents and journalists face detentions, harassment, and constant surveillance, while the regime uses repressive laws to justify these actions. This creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation that limits the possibilities for political and social change on the island.
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