The Cuban writer and opposition figure Ángel Santiesteban-Prats was arrested this Wednesday in Havana while attempting to leave his home amid the widespread blackout that affected the entire island.
According to a report from her partner, journalist and activist Camila Acosta, State Security agents prevented her from moving freely, holding her without an official explanation and she was detained for three hours.
"A G2 officer told him that he couldn't leave until the electricity service was restored. Ángel replied that then they should arrest him," Acosta detailed, noting that Santiesteban argued that his house was not a dungeon.
The arrest occurs in a context of social tension due to the energy crisis, which left Cuba without electricity since early hours following the collapse of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant.
The blackout, which paralyzed basic services and sparked spontaneous protests in various neighborhoods, provided a backdrop for the harassment of critical figures of the regime.
Santiesteban-Prats, a recognized author, dissident, and Masonic leader, has been one of the strongest voices against cultural and political repression in Cuba.
In the past, he had already suffered imprisonment for political reasons, even though the government tried to portray it as a case of "common crimes." His name is now added to the list of artists and writers persecuted by the regime.
"Ángel left without a phone. It is highly likely that they will keep him in the holding cell for between 3 and 5 days, until they manage -if they manage this time- to synchronize the thermoelectric plants and restore the electrical service," said the journalist.
A video published by the independent media CubaNet shows the moment when the opposition member enters the patrol car and the vehicle speeds away.
The arrest coincides with the deployment of control measures over the citizens during the blackout. Other opponents, such as Yamilka Lafita, are also under police surveillance.
While the regime warned through statements from the Electric Union about alleged "fake news" on social media —including parody posts calling for people to take to the streets like in Nepal—, the political police intensified its surveillance over opponents and independent journalists.
The case illustrates that, even in the midst of a national blackout, the regime's priority is not to address the energy emergency, but to silence any critical voices.
The repression against Santiesteban-Prats sends a clear message: in Cuba, freedom of movement and expression continue to be subordinated to the absolute control of power.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Detention of Ángel Santiesteban-Prats and the Crisis in Cuba
Why was Ángel Santiesteban-Prats arrested in Havana?
Ángel Santiesteban-Prats was detained for attempting to leave his home during a general blackout in Cuba. According to reports, State Security agents prevented him from moving freely, holding him without an official explanation. This act occurs within a context of repression against critical figures of the regime amid an energy crisis on the island.
What is the current situation regarding blackouts in Cuba?
Cuba is facing prolonged blackouts due to the energy crisis affecting the country. These power outages, which can last more than 10 hours, are a result of breakdowns in thermoelectric plants, a lack of fuel, and infrastructure issues, leading to discontent and protests in various regions of the island.
How has the Cuban government responded to the protests over power outages?
The Cuban government has intensified repression to contain the protests. Authorities have arrested demonstrators and deployed police operations to prevent the protests from spreading. This response reflects an effort to control the growing social discontent amid the energy crisis.
What role does the international community play in the human rights situation in Cuba?
The international community has expressed concern over the repression of opponents and activists in Cuba. Human rights organizations and some governments have denounced arbitrary arrests and harassment of critical figures of the regime, urging the Cuban government to respect the fundamental rights of its citizens.
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