Two Years Since Historic Protests: Repression and Torture Continue for Cuban Dissidents

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Thousands of Cubans took to the streets on July 11, 2021, marking two years since the historic protests where they demanded freedom, an end to the dictatorship, and a better quality of life. However, since then, the Cuban regime has ramped up its persecution of the population, resulting in a surge in political prisoners and reports of ill-treatment and torture.

Rosa María Payá, daughter of Oswaldo Payá, a Cuban dissident assassinated by the dictatorship, stated that July 11, 2021, was a turning point for the Cuban people. She highlighted the regime’s state terrorism, with individuals being imprisoned for simply sharing a post on Facebook. Payá emphasized that the Cuban people have awakened and are willing to pay the ultimate cost for freedom.

One example of the regime’s persecution is the case of Félix Navarro, who recently completed a 70-year prison sentence for inquiring about the disappeared protesters. Payá explained that Navarro and his daughter Saylí Navarro, founders of the Cuba Decide initiative, are among over a thousand Cubans imprisoned for defending the July 11 protesters. She stressed that there are more political prisoners in Cuba than in the rest of the continent combined.

Javier Larrondo, president of the NGO Prisoners Defenders, noted that the events of July 11, 2021, made governments worldwide realize that the situation in Cuba goes beyond dissidence—it is about an oppressed people. He stated that the repression, which previously targeted dissidents, has now expanded to the civilian population. Larrondo argued that the Cuban people have awakened to the realization that they are governed by criminals.

In a recent report, Prisoners Defenders denounced the dire situation of José Daniel Ferrer, a prominent Cuban political prisoner. Ferrer has been subjected to torture, including sonic torture, chemical poisoning, beatings, psychological torment, and isolation. Payá described him as unbreakable and stated that his release, along with that of all political prisoners, requires increased international pressure.

Ferrer’s wife, Nelva Ismarays Ortega-Tamayo, expressed grave concern for her husband’s health and highlighted the dictatorship’s efforts to hide the intensified torture he has faced since July 11, 2021. She expressed fear for his life and emphasized his determination to remain in Cuba rather than accept exile.

According to Prisoners Defenders’ most recent report, there are currently 1,047 political prisoners in Cuba, with over half of them being peaceful protesters. The organization stressed that all political prisoners, including women and minors, are subjected to merciless torture.

The Cuban regime’s brutal treatment of its population has been widely condemned. The international community is called upon to increase pressure for the release of political prisoners and to ensure their safety and well-being. The plight of the Cuban people cannot be ignored, and it is crucial to bring an end to their suffering under the oppressive regime.