The young Cuban activist Raymar Aguado Hernández reported a new episode of harassment and intimidation by the State Security Department (DSE) due to his public support for the university student strike and his opposition to the price hike imposed by the state-owned company ETECSA.
According to a post on social media, an agent identifying himself as Oribel Díaz, alleged Chief of Sector of Cayo Hueso, arrived at his home around 1:30 p.m. this Tuesday to deliver an official summons requiring him to appear the next day at the police station of Zanja and Dragones.
Verbal citation without legal basis
Raymar refused to sign the summons, not recognizing the legitimacy of these repressive procedures: “I do not sign summons because they are contrary to Cuban law and violate my rights.”
After his refusal, the agent took back the document, stating that he was “verbally summoned” and that if he did not attend, he would “face the consequences.”
Aguado emphasized that the alleged verbal summons lacks legality, as it was not issued directly by the officer who would conduct the interview, nor did it include a specific reason, time, or visible signature, which makes it a form of intimidation without legal support.
"This citation serves no other purpose than to intimidate me and hinder my activism in support of the student strike and against the digital rate hike. The DSE acts as an enforcer for the corrupt and authoritarian regime that controls the country," he stated.
Fearless, with Mella as a symbol
Raymar Aguado was one of the key figures in the symbolic gesture that revived the image of Julio Antonio Mella as an icon of resistance, used by Cuban students in recent weeks to express their discontent with the government's repressive policies and the excessive increase in internet fees.
In her own words, she concluded her statement with a strong declaration: “I am not afraid of them. If they want to silence me, they should shoot to kill. When fighting for dignity and justice, there can be no fear.”
Aguado has been one of the most active young voices in the current wave of civic protest, marked by the digital discontent that the government itself has transferred from the virtual space to the physical space, as noted by prominent figures in Cuban critical thought.
Frequently Asked Questions about Student Protests in Cuba and Government Harassment
Why are Cuban students protesting against ETECSA?
Students are protesting against the rate hike imposed by ETECSA, which limits top-ups in Cuban pesos and forces them to pay high prices in foreign currency. This is viewed as a direct attack on their right to information and access to the internet, essential for their studies and daily activities.
How has State Security responded to the student protests?
The State Security has responded with repression and harassment towards students and activists supporting the protests. There have been reported threats of imprisonment, expulsions from universities, and illegal summonses, as part of a strategy to silence dissent and curb the student movement.
What role does Raymar Aguado Hernández play in the protests in Cuba?
Raymar Aguado Hernández is a young activist who has been one of the most vocal supporters of the student protests. He recently condemned the harassment by State Security due to his support for the student strike and his opposition to the ETECSA price hike, reaffirming his commitment to the fight for dignity and justice.
What is the current situation in Cuban universities regarding protests?
Cuban universities are experiencing a climate of great tension and unrest. Despite government reprisals, many faculties have chosen to maintain and strengthen protests, demanding fairer internet fees and equitable treatment from ETECSA, in a context of increasing repression by State Security.
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