Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer made a vigorous call on Monday for the unity of all Cubans to "end the dictatorship as soon as possible" during his first appearance before the press since his forced exile, held at the headquarters of the Cuban American National Foundation (FNCA) in Miami.
The message, filled with self-criticism, geopolitical analysis, and a sense of urgency, was his first public statement after being exiled by the Cuban regime.
"We are all to blame, all of us Cubans, for how long this has lasted. Those of us in exile, those who are in Cuba, all Cubans, both those inside and those in the diaspora," Ferrer expressed, acknowledging that inaction has also been part of the problem.
His message also included harsh criticism of governments and international organizations for their passivity.
The opposition figure stated that, with a few exceptions, "almost all of Latin America has played a very regrettable role" in relation to the Cuban regime, including right-wing governments.
He also criticized the European Union for treating the regime "as if it were a democratic government," despite its alliances with Russia, China, and Iran.
"They forget that he is an ally of Russia and that there are many Cubans fighting for Putin in Ukraine," he warned.
Ferrer also spoke about the United States' foreign policy towards Cuba and recalled that, during previous administrations, there was "too much leniency" in the relationship with the dictatorship.
"At some point, I supported him, because not doing so would have been political suicide for those of us who were imprisoned, but it has been proven that those approaches did not work," she stated.
Regarding the immediate future, he was categorical: “The conditions are very favorable for us Cubans, both inside and outside the country, who want freedom and democracy, to align once and for all and make the actors in the free world take action.”
He assured that it is not just a Cuban interest, but a global necessity, and reiterated his intention to continue working for "greater unity and effectiveness both inside and outside of Cuba."
Ferrer defended the need to take action and corner the regime using peaceful but active methods: graffiti, public messages, social mobilization.
“The political police must not rest for a moment,” he stated.
According to him, only sustained pressure will manage to release political prisoners from jail and mobilize the international community.
During his speech, he also congratulated the Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado for the Nobel Peace Prize, using the opportunity to draw clear connections between the dictatorships of Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba.
"If there is a dictatorship in Venezuela like Maduro's, it is because there was a dictatorship like Cuba's," he stated.
Finally, Ferrer emphasized that "it is impossible for us to democratize Cuba on our own," and highlighted that the regime has relied for decades on the support of authoritarian powers.
That is why he insisted that only a combination of internal unity, on-the-ground action, and international pressure can lead to definitive freedom.
Voces del exilio, politics, and civil society condemned this Monday the exile of José Daniel Ferrer, due to the abuses committed by the regime in Havana, and welcomed him in Miami as a symbol of resistance against the repression of the Cuban regime.
His departure from the country, from the Santiago de Cuba airport and accompanied by his family, was confirmed this Monday by the regime, which tried to portray the event as a lawful act and the result of an ordinary legal procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Exile of José Daniel Ferrer and the Political Situation in Cuba
Why was José Daniel Ferrer exiled from Cuba?
José Daniel Ferrer was exiled from Cuba as a result of an agreement forced by the Cuban regime, which sought his departure from the country under international pressure and as part of a strategy of covert exile. Ferrer, a prominent opponent, was subjected to inhumane conditions during his detention, leading him to accept exile to protect his family. This exile has been criticized by activists and international governments, who see this action as a maneuver by the regime to silence dissenting voices.
What has been the stance of the international community regarding Ferrer's exile?
The international community has condemned the exile of José Daniel Ferrer and has expressed its support for his cause. Political figures and human rights organizations have shown solidarity with Ferrer, highlighting his bravery and commitment to freedom in Cuba. The United States, in particular, has called for the release of over 700 political prisoners on the island and has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting democracy in Cuba.
What methods does José Daniel Ferrer propose to advocate for freedom in Cuba?
José Daniel Ferrer advocates for peaceful yet active methods to pressure the Cuban regime. He proposes social mobilization, the creation of graffiti, and public messaging as ways to maintain constant pressure on the government. Ferrer emphasizes the need for unity among Cubans both inside and outside the country and highlights the importance of international pressure to achieve meaningful changes in Cuba.
What has Ferrer’s life been like in prison, and what led him to accept exile?
José Daniel Ferrer has reported facing inhumane conditions and torture during his imprisonment in Cuba. He was subjected to beatings, death threats, and other forms of abuse. He accepted exile due to the extreme pressure from the regime and the need to protect his family. Despite leaving Cuba, Ferrer remains committed to the struggle for freedom and democracy on the island.
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