The Cuban regime unleashed a wave of repression to prevent the participation of activists, journalists, and members of civil society in the reception organized by the United States Embassy in Havana, in commemoration of that country's Independence Day, celebrated this Wednesday.
According to a report by Martí Noticias, several opposition members were arrested, and others remain under surveillance or house arrest, in a coordinated action by State Security to prevent their attendance at the diplomatic event.
Since the early hours of July 2, activists have reported police operations and arbitrary restrictions in various parts of the country.
Among those arrested are the leader of the Damas de Blanco, Berta Soler, ; and the dissident rapper Osvaldo Navarro, along with his partner, activist Marthadela Tamayo, who were intercepted in the Cerro municipality.
Doctor Oscar Elías Biscet and his wife Elsa Morejón, as well as journalist Camila Acosta and her partner, writer Ángel Santiesteban, were also prevented from leaving their homes.
Acosta, correspondent for the Spanish newspaper ABC, reported that the regime increases repression when it senses greater international pressure: “The ultimate goal is to isolate us and also put pressure on diplomats,” he said.
The surveillance was not limited to Havana. In Camajuaní, Villa Clara, the opposition figure Librado Linares reported an operation in his neighborhood and constant monitoring.
In Aguada de Pasajeros, Cienfuegos, the brothers Bárbaro and Juan Alberto de la Nuez were threatened by the political police to prevent them from traveling to the capital.
In Pinar del Río, the authorities prohibited Eduardo Díaz Fleitas and Nilda García Fleitas, the mother of a political prisoner, from traveling to Havana.
In the capital, independent journalist Yunia Figueredo and her husband, Frank Correa, were detained after refusing to attend a police interrogation.
The journalist Reynaldo Escobar from 14ymedio criticized the repression as a “disrespect” to a country with which Cuba maintains diplomatic relations, and he recalled the historical participation of Cubans in the independence of the United States: “During that war, part of George Washington's efforts was financed from Havana. Now, even attending a commemorative party is prohibited.”
The Cuban government has accused the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. embassy, Mike Hammer, of interference and has threatened to expel him for meeting with dissidents, religious leaders, and other representatives of civil society.
Frequently Asked Questions about Repression in Cuba on July 4th
How did the Cuban regime respond to the celebration of July 4th in Havana?
The Cuban regime unleashed a wave of repression to prevent activists, journalists, and members of civil society from participating in the celebration organized by the Embassy of the United States in Havana. Several opponents were arrested and others remain under surveillance or house arrest, in a coordinated action by State Security to avoid their presence at the diplomatic event.
Who were some of the opponents arrested during the repressive actions in Cuba?
Among those arrested are figures such as Berta Soler, leader of the Ladies in White, and the dissenting rapper Osvaldo Navarro, along with his partner Marthadela Tamayo. Additionally, the exit from their homes was blocked for other activists and journalists, such as Camila Acosta and her partner Ángel Santiesteban.
What is the Cuban government's stance regarding the United States Embassy in Havana?
The Cuban government has accused the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, Mike Hammer, of interference and has threatened to expel him for meeting with opposition members, religious figures, and other representatives of civil society. This stance reflects a climate of bilateral tension between Cuba and the United States.
What is the objective of the Cuban regime with these repressive actions?
According to reports from activists, the regime's objective is to isolate civil society and exert pressure on diplomats, thereby preventing human rights violations on the island from being exposed. This pattern of repression aims to hinder independent oversight and silence dissenting voices.
Filed under:
