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The independent Cuban artist Fernando Almenares Rivera, known as Nando Obdc, remains incarcerated since the end of last year, despite not being among those presumed guilty of the crime for which he was arrested.
"On August 19, Gaceta De Cuba published a Request outlining the events that led to the imprisonment of artist and activist Fernando Almenares Rivera (NandoOBDC) on December 31, 2024,” reads a tweet from the account of the Mesa de Diálogo de la Juventud Cubana, which details the case of the dissenting artist.
In the indictment, "the alleged offenders are mentioned, and the presence of other individuals beyond those they identify as supposed accomplices is required," they explain.
"This official document raises the same questions we have been asking since the beginning: Why is Nando in prison if he has committed no crime? How can a Cuban flag be incriminating evidence?"
The organization wonders, "Could it be that the true reason for Nando's imprisonment is related to the social complaints he was making on social media? Was it because of the reach his reports about young people using drugs in the streets were gaining?"
"Although with this publication from the Gaceta de Cuba we once again affirm the innocence of the artist, Nando OBDC remains imprisoned due to the sheer arbitrariness of the Cuban regime. There is no accusation against Nando OBDC. There is no evidence that can incriminate him," they conclude.
The 35-year-old artist was arrested on December 31, 2024, at his home in the La Lisa municipality of Havana. The arrest, as reported by the initiative Arte Prohibido, led by Nando himself, was carried out without prior notice or a judicial order.
According to reports from his family and independent organizations, his detention is related to allegations of alleged ties to subversive activities and a fire that occurred in Lenin Park on December 30.
At the end of July, Nando Obdc declared a hunger strike while isolated in a prison in Güines, Mayabeque Province.
Frequently Asked Questions about the case of the Cuban artist Nando Obdc
Why is Nando Obdc still imprisoned if he is not on the list of those guilty according to the Cuban regime?
Nando Obdc remains imprisoned purely due to the arbitrariness of the Cuban regime, as there is no formal accusation or evidence incriminating him. His detention appears to be related to his activism and the social complaints he raised on social media.
What is the current health status of Nando Obdc in prison?
Nando Obdc is on a hunger strike and is isolated in the Güines prison, which has raised concerns about his health. His mother has been unable to reach him, and the authorities do not provide clear information, exacerbating the uncertainty regarding his well-being.
What actions are being taken to demand the release of Nando Obdc?
Various activists and social media users have started using the hashtag #FreeNando to raise awareness of the case and demand his release or the restoration of his basic rights as a detainee. Additionally, his wife and other organizations have reported on his situation and are calling for international pressure for his release.
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