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Cuban animal rights activist Javier Larrea denied rumors about his alleged death on Monday, which had been spread across various social media pages and profiles.
Through a post on his Facebook account, Larrea directly accused what he referred to as "a systematic campaign of defamation" against him.
"I find a thousand calls from friends on my phone, a message from Mario Pentón, and many more journalists who are serious and confirm before issuing news like my death," Larrea wrote, visibly indignant.
CiberCuba was able to confirm that, since early June, a supposed statement began to circulate falsely announcing the death of Larrea and containing fabricated details about his personal life, attributing a suicide to him, alleged emotional betrayals, and ties to the regime. This text was received by this editorial team and dismissed for lacking verifiable truth.
In the past, his social media accounts were subjected to hacking attempts, as reported by the activist himself.
Larrea stated that this type of manipulation is not coincidental, but occurs following his most recent public denunciations, which he attributes to deliberate attempts to discredit him.
Residing in Spain, the activist warned that this incident is not an isolated event, and recalled that media outlets such as Diario de Cuba and Periódico Cubano had previously alerted about attempts to harm him through social networks.
“I was already removed from BAC due to pressure, they spread lies that I had stolen, contributed to my losing my partner… they used phones and profiles pretending to be me,” he reported.
Larrea, who graduated in law and has gained recognition for his work in defense of animal rights and his social activism, asserted that he is tired of constantly having to come out and refute falsehoods.
"I'm exhausted from always having to explain myself because two or three people never get tired of bothering," he wrote.
He concluded his message with a firm statement: “No, I’m not dead. I’m more alive than ever,” while requesting respect for his family, friends, and community.
He reiterated his faith that those who engage in such practices "will one day have to pay for all the harm they have done to the Cuban people."
In 2021, the young man warned that he would not cease his fight for animal protection in the country, despite the poisoning of his dogs, which he himself reported heartbroken during a Facebook live stream.
Frequently asked questions about the defamation campaign against Javier Larrea and animal rights activism in Cuba
What has Javier Larrea reported regarding his alleged death?
Javier Larrea, Cuban animal rights activist, has denounced a defamatory campaign on social media that falsely claimed he was dead. He stated that he is not dead and that these manipulations are deliberate attempts to discredit him due to his recent public denunciations. Residing in Spain, Larrea expressed his indignation at having to constantly refute falsehoods.
What is the context of the smear campaigns in Cuba?
Defamation campaigns are common in Cuba, especially against activists and opponents of the regime. These attacks aim to discredit those who speak out against the lack of freedoms and rights on the island. Activist Amelia Calzadilla has also been a victim of these practices, suggesting that they may be orchestrated by State Security.
What challenges does animal rights activism face in Cuba?
Animal activism in Cuba faces serious challenges, including institutional inaction in cases of animal cruelty. Activists have reported the lack of effective response from authorities and the impunity with which animal abusers operate. Recent cases in Cienfuegos and Holguín have sparked outrage and calls to reform animal welfare laws.
How does the community react to misinformation on social media?
The animal rights community and other sectors in Cuba are reacting with concern and rejection to the misinformation on social media. It is common for activists and public figures to debunk false rumors spread to discredit them. These acts of misinformation not only affect the image of individuals, but also generate fear and distrust in society.
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