The U.S. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart publicly praised three Cuban dissidents imprisoned by the regime in Havana, whom he described as “heroes” and symbols of hope for freedom on the island.
In statements shared on his social media, Díaz-Balart asserted: “Cuba will be free thanks to them.”
The Republican legislator, known for his unwavering support for the Cuban democratic cause, emphasized José Daniel Ferrer, leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU); Duannis León Taboada; and Félix Navarro.
Díaz-Balart acknowledged that from his political prison, "they continue to fight and advocate for the freedom of the Cuban people," which will lead to the liberation of Cubans.
He also expressed that they are not alone, but have the support of everyone who fights for a common cause.
Let them know they are not alone, Cuba will be free because of heroes like you, who continue to fight for what is inevitable, the absolute freedom of the Cuban people," he expressed.
José Daniel Ferrer was imprisoned following the revocation of his parole in April 2025, charged with contempt and propaganda against the constitutional order.
Her detention is seen by international observers as a political maneuver to silence her activism and humanitarian work in Cuba.
The leader is facing inhumane conditions in Mar Verde prison, including torture, beatings, lack of medical attention, and confinement alongside common prisoners who attack him.
International organizations such as Amnesty International and the United States government have demanded the immediate release of José Daniel Ferrer.
Furthermore, the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba (FDHC) has included officials from the Mar Verde prison on its list of Repressors for their role in the assaults against Ferrer.
Félix Navarro, leader of the opposition Party for Democracy Pedro Luis Boitel, was arrested during the protests on July 11, 2021, and sentenced to nine years in prison for the alleged crimes of "assault" and "public disorder."
In January of this year, he was released as part of a dialogue process between the Cuban regime and the Vatican, but the relief was short-lived: he was arrested again on April 29 and returned to prison without any clarification regarding the procedural reasons for that action.
The health condition of Félix Navarro is critical and has significantly deteriorated while in prison. He is exhibiting severe respiratory symptoms and alarming physical decline. He has been diagnosed with pharyngitis, and there is concern that he may have been exposed to tuberculosis due to his confinement alongside other inmates with symptoms consistent with this disease.
Duannis Dabel León Taboada was sentenced to 14 years in prison for his involvement in the protests on July 11, 2021, known as 11J. He was accused of sedition and damage to a police patrol, although both he and his family maintain that he is innocent and that he merely exercised his right to peacefully protest.
The young man suffered a serious deterioration in health after more than 10 days without consuming food during his hunger strike.
Despite official statements downplaying his condition, his family and activists have expressed deep concern for his well-being, particularly due to his pre-existing medical conditions.
Frequently asked questions about imprisoned Cuban dissidents and Mario Díaz-Balart's stance
Who are the Cuban opponents mentioned by Mario Díaz-Balart as heroes?
Mario Díaz-Balart highlighted José Daniel Ferrer, Duannis León Taboada, and Félix Navarro as heroes. These opponents are imprisoned by the Cuban regime due to their political activism and are seen as symbols of hope for freedom in Cuba. Ferrer and Navarro have been recognized for their ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights on the island.
Why were José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro imprisoned?
José Daniel Ferrer was imprisoned after his parole was revoked in April 2025, accused of contempt and propaganda against the constitutional order. Félix Navarro was arrested during the protests on July 11, 2021, and sentenced to nine years for "assault" and "public disorder." Both have been internationally recognized as prisoners of conscience, and their detentions are seen as political maneuvers to silence their activism.
What is the health status of the imprisoned opposition members?
The health status of José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro is critical and has significantly deteriorated in prison. Ferrer faces inhumane conditions, including torture and lack of medical care, while Navarro exhibits severe respiratory symptoms and has been diagnosed with pharyngitis. His condition is alarming due to exposure to harsh prison conditions and infectious diseases.
What actions has the international community taken regarding these Cuban dissidents?
International organizations and governments, including the United States and the European Union, have demanded the immediate release of these opposition figures. Amnesty International and other human rights entities have condemned the inhumane conditions of their imprisonment. The U.S. government, through various statements, has expressed its support and held the Cuban regime responsible for any harm suffered by these political prisoners.
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