What we should and can do for Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara

Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara has already completed the arbitrary five-year sentence imposed on him. However, he remains deprived of his freedom and his situation has been reported by human rights organizations, which have even promoted a habeas corpus petition to demand that the communist authorities officially inform about his whereabouts and legal situation. So far, there has been no sufficient public explanation regarding the reasons for his continued detention in an unknown location.

In a situation like this, it's time to ask ourselves what we can do to contribute to their release.

The first thing to say is that the least blame should be directed at the United States. For years, various U.S. administrations have kept the situation of Cuban political prisoners among their diplomatic priorities and have undertaken both public and private efforts to demand their release, and the current administration is the most engaged we have had in a long time.

Those who must now raise the level of pressure are the democratic governments of Europe, Latin America, and the rest of the free world. The defense of human rights cannot rely solely on one country. If there is truly a universal commitment to freedom, this is the moment to demonstrate it with Luis Manuel, with all political prisoners, and with the oppressed people of Cuba who are suffering in the deepest misery at the hands of a criminal regime.

What should be done?

First. Cubans on the Island and in exile must expand the campaigns in favor of the freedom of Luis Manuel and all political prisoners, with increasing actions.

Secondly, that democratic governments publicly demand the immediate release of Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara or, at the very least, that the Cuban authorities inform with complete transparency about his legal situation and whereabouts.

Third. That the United Nations, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the European Union, and other international bodies keep the case on their agenda and demand compliance with the international obligations assumed by the Cuban regime regarding human rights.

Room. Let parliaments, artists, intellectuals, universities, human rights organizations, and distinguished figures multiply public statements to prevent the case from falling into silence.

Fifth. That the media keeps attention on this case. The pressure of international public opinion has, on other occasions, helped to protect individuals deprived of their liberty for political reasons and to demand explanations from the authorities.

Sixth. That all available legal actions continue, including habeas corpus and any other remedies provided by law, so that the authorities of the regime respond formally regarding the legality of their situation.

The freedom of a person cannot be subjected to uncertainty or administrative silence. When a sentence has concluded, it is the authorities' duty to clearly explain any subsequent restrictions and to ensure respect for due process. This demand is not a political concession; it is a fundamental principle of the rule of law and the protection of human rights. Of course, we know that in the case of Cuba, we are facing a ruthless tyranny.

Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara must not become just another name in a long list of individuals whose situations fade away with time. Keeping his case alive, demanding verifiable information, and calling for the respect of his rights is a responsibility that falls to all those who defend human dignity, regardless of their political positions. This also applies to all prisoners and detainees for political reasons in Cuba.