The Cuban opposition figure Yurisnel Domenech Atencio reported that the authorities notified his grandmother, an elderly person, and his aunt, whom he identified as a person with "social assistance," about the withdrawal of the financial support they were receiving.
In her social media video, she described the measure as a "cowardly and petty act" and a retaliation against her.
Domenech stated that the decision would jeopardize the health of both, by limiting their access to necessary food and medications for treating chronic illnesses.
He stated that such actions are part of the reprisals that—according to him—those of us in Cuba who "decided to raise our voices" to denounce the situation in the country and demand rights face.
In his complaint, the opposition member stated that his grandmother and aunt depend on that support to cover basic needs and medical treatments, and asserted that without that income, "they will now be unable to access the food or medications" they need to address chronic conditions "that have no cure."
He explained that the measure would be an indirect punishment aimed at targeting his family for their activism, asserting that it is "undoubtedly" an act of retaliation "against me," but that also "puts their lives in danger."
He also stated that he will not be intimidated by threats or pressure, assuring that he will only be silenced "the day they manage to end my life," a message aimed at underscoring his commitment to continue denouncing what he sees as abuses and precarious conditions.
In the same video, the opposition figure called on "all the rulers of all free countries" to look "with an eye of justice" at the Cuban people and not to be "complicit" —in his words— in the "abuse and death" of millions of people who, he claimed, only want to live in democracy with their rights respected. He concluded his message with the slogan "Homeland and Life."
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