On July 29, Nelva Ismarays Ortega, the wife of José Daniel Ferrer, along with their children, managed to visit him at Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba. Ferrer, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), has been held there since his conditional release was revoked in April.
“Yesterday, July 29, around 2:00 p.m., his wife and two of his children were able to visit him for his 55th birthday. They spent an hour with him, bringing him lunch and a cake,” shared his sister, Ana Belkis Ferrer, on the opposition leader’s official account on X. In the same message, she noted that Ferrer “remains in the same cell, alongside common prisoners, under constant threats.” She continued to describe that “since July 5, there have been relentless beatings and torture,” and that Ferrer is suffering from “severe headaches, muscle and joint pains, and kidney area discomfort.” She added that Ferrer “sends greetings and is immensely grateful to those who congratulated him and kept him in their thoughts.”
Ferrer began a hunger strike on June 29. On July 2, his wife was detained when attempting to reach the prison with their children to demand proof of his life; subsequently, the regime allowed a supervised visit after days of silence.
Amid these accusations, five officials from Mar Verde prison have been added to the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba's (FDHC) List of Repressors for allegedly participating in assaults against Ferrer after he started his hunger strike. The organization claims these officers were involved in beatings and other abusive practices.
On July 30, the United States once again addressed the opposition figure's situation, coinciding with his 55th birthday: “Yesterday, José Daniel Ferrer spent another birthday unjustly imprisoned. The United States does not forget his bravery nor the resolve of countless Cubans who have stood against a criminal and illegitimate regime,” the Department of State's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs posted on X. Amnesty International also demanded his immediate release, highlighting that Ferrer is being held “subjected to cruel, inhuman treatment and torture, far from his family and children.”
The opposition leader was released in January on conditional bail, but the Supreme People's Court revoked this privilege in late April, citing his failure to appear at court summonses, leading to his re-incarceration.
Understanding José Daniel Ferrer's Situation
Who is José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer is the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), a notable opposition figure against the Cuban regime.
Why was José Daniel Ferrer re-incarcerated?
Ferrer was re-incarcerated after the Supreme People's Court revoked his conditional release, alleging his failure to attend court summonses.
What actions has the U.S. taken regarding Ferrer's imprisonment?
The U.S. continues to advocate for Ferrer, highlighting his unjust imprisonment and commending the courage of Cubans opposing the regime.
How has Ferrer's family been involved in his situation?
Ferrer’s family, including his wife and children, have actively sought to visit him, demanding proof of his well-being and supporting his release efforts.