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The Cuban artist and political prisoner Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is experiencing a critical health condition, four years after his arrest in July 2021.
According to what has been reported on social media, in his most recent phone conversation with family members this Thursday, he revealed that he suffers from skin herpes, intestinal parasites, and chikungunya, which has caused a significant physical deterioration and constant exhaustion.
Despite the ailments, relatives assure that he maintains a positive spirit and a strong mind, though they acknowledge that the situation is concerning and requires attention.
Otero Alcántara is serving a five-year prison sentence in the maximum-security prison of Guanajay, imposed due to his artistic and political activism in defense of freedom of expression in Cuba.
Human rights organizations and civil society groups have reiterated their condemnation of the artist's detention, emphasizing that his imprisonment reflects the repression against those who attempt to express critical ideas within the island.
The family and their representatives have expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown internationally, but they insist that it is crucial to maintain pressure to raise awareness of their case and demand their release.
“It is an irreplaceable time that has been taken away from him, marked by torture, illness, and lasting effects that will accompany him for life,” they stated in the announcement.
The update on his health comes at a time when human rights advocates are urging the international community to not turn a blind eye to political prisoners in Cuba.
"Indifference is complicity," warn Otero's relatives, reminding us that over a thousand Cubans remain imprisoned for political reasons.
On July 11, 2021, during the anti-government protests that shook the island, Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara was arrested in Havana while attempting to join the demonstrations.
In June 2022, he was sentenced to five years in prison for "insulting national symbols," "contempt," and "public disorder."
Frequently asked questions about the situation of Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara
What is the health status of Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara?
The Cuban artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is facing a delicate state of health, suffering from skin herpes, intestinal parasites, and chikungunya, which has led to significant physical deterioration and constant fatigue.
Why is Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara imprisoned?
Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is serving a five-year sentence for "insulting national symbols," "disobedience," and "public disorder," following his arrest on July 11, 2021, during the anti-government protests in Cuba.
What do international organizations say about his detention?
Various organizations, including the UN, have declared that the detention of Otero Alcántara is arbitrary and have demanded his immediate release. Amnesty International considers him a "prisoner of conscience."
What recognition has Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara received from prison?
Despite his imprisonment, Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara has been honored with the Václav Havel International Prize for Creative Dissent for his commitment to freedom and creation as forms of resistance.
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