In a move that underscores its ongoing repression, the Cuban regime rescinded the parole of dissident Donaida Pérez Paseiro on Wednesday, compelling her to return to prison to complete her sentence. According to a statement posted on Facebook by the Villa Clara Provincial People's Court, the revocation was due to her "failure to comply with the obligations" linked to her parole conditions, which included missing a court summons and allegedly failing in the "work environment."
The judicial body referenced articles 149, 150, and 172 of the Penal Execution Law, alongside article 128.1 from Decree Law 74 of 2023, as legal justification for their decision. As a result, Donaida Pérez is mandated to serve the remainder of her sentence in a correctional facility. Pérez Paseiro, a member of the Free Yorubas of Cuba Association, was released from prison in January 2024 as part of a group of 553 individuals, primarily common prisoners, who were granted early release. She was initially convicted on charges of contempt, assault, and public disorder.
Political Repression Criticized
Journalist and academic José Raúl Gallego swiftly condemned the announcement, describing it as "another arbitrary act by the Cuban regime." He noted that Donaida Pérez is now the third opposition figure to be reincarcerated following a conditional release, along with José Daniel Ferrer García and Félix Navarro Rodríguez. "Since her release, Donaida has only exercised her right to free expression and demanded the release of her husband, political prisoner Loreto Hernández, who is also in critical health," Gallego stated.
Gallego further criticized recent agreements that allowed some releases, labeling them as "inadequate, constrained, and disconnected from civil society, political prisoners, and their families."
Engagement with U.S. Diplomats
In a symbolic gesture towards dialogue with opposition members, Donaida Pérez Paseiro met with Mike Hammer, the U.S. ambassador to Cuba. Her return to incarceration raises significant concerns over the lack of true guarantees for freedom of expression and association on the island, particularly for activists involved in diplomatic engagements.
The revocation of her parole takes place amid a backdrop of increasing criminalization of activism, targeted repression, and surveillance of those within Cuba who dare to publicly challenge authority.
A Legacy of Resistance
Born in 1971, Donaida Pérez Paseiro is well-known for her leadership as president of the Free Yorubas of Cuba Association, an independent religious community on the island. On July 11, 2021, Pérez Paseiro took part in anti-government protests. She voluntarily surrendered to authorities on July 16, 2021, following an arrest warrant issued against her. She was subsequently charged with public disorder, contempt, and assault against a public official.
In February 2022, the Santa Clara Municipal People's Court sentenced her to eight years in prison. She had been held at the Guamajal women's prison in Santa Clara, Villa Clara province. Her case prompted international concern, especially regarding her health, as she suffers from hypertension and diabetes, conditions that worsened during her imprisonment.
In December 2021, she was hospitalized after experiencing bloody vomiting and abdominal pain. In July 2022, she exhibited COVID-19 symptoms and was isolated in prison. Organizations like Amnesty International have recognized Pérez Paseiro as a prisoner of conscience and have been demanding her immediate and unconditional release, arguing that her detention is solely due to her peaceful protest participation and religious leadership.
Her husband, Loreto Hernández García, who serves as vice president of the same religious association, was also arrested and sentenced to seven years in prison for his role in the July 11 protests. The arrests and convictions of Pérez Paseiro and her husband have been condemned as violations of religious and expression freedoms in Cuba, prompting international calls for their release.
Key Questions on Cuba's Political Repression
What were the reasons cited for Donaida Pérez Paseiro's parole revocation?
The Cuban authorities cited her failure to comply with parole obligations, including missing a court summons and alleged workplace noncompliance.
How has the international community responded to Pérez Paseiro's situation?
Organizations like Amnesty International have recognized her as a prisoner of conscience, calling for her immediate release. Her case has drawn international concern, particularly due to health issues exacerbated during her imprisonment.
What impact does this revocation have on freedom of expression in Cuba?
Her reincarceration highlights the lack of genuine freedom of expression and association in Cuba, especially for activists engaged in diplomatic and public discourse.