Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, the Cuban Foreign Minister, asserted on social media that the Cuban revolution eliminated disappearances and torture on the island. This claim, however, is contradicted by the regime's ongoing practices against opposition activists. Authorities frequently detain citizens, violating their own criminal procedure laws, and keep them incommunicado from their families and friends for hours.
Rodríguez took to his X account to emphasize that the "right to life" is central to Cuba's political system, claiming the nation is committed to combating forced disappearances, which he described as a serious human rights violation. Yet, this statement clashes with reports of arbitrary detentions, such as the arrest of activist Yamilka Laffita on August 26 in Havana.
Activist Arrests Highlight Regime's Contradictions
The activist, known as Lara Crofs on social media, was intercepted by Revolutionary National Police agents while traveling in a vehicle after leaving the home of writer and comedian Jorge Fernández Era in the Antonio Guiteras neighborhood. Witnesses reported her whereabouts were unknown following the arrest, prompting public outcries for her release. Laffita later confirmed on Facebook that she was released but described the arrest as violent, resulting in an injury to her right foot.
Allegations of State Security Abuse
Fernández accused State Security officers of "fascist" behavior after they assaulted him on July 18 at the Zanja Unit in Central Havana. He was taken there shortly after leaving his home to conduct a peaceful protest in Central Park. He recounted the physical assault and death threats he endured. Despite having a hospital-issued injury certificate, his attempt to file a complaint against his assailants at the Diez de Octubre police unit was dismissed, as the injuries were considered "minor damages."
Human Rights Concerns and International Attention
In mid-August, the Pan American Democracy Foundation's Center for Complaints raised alarms about the forced disappearance of Cuban political prisoner Mario Alberto Hernández Leyva, who went missing for over 48 hours. Hernández Leyva is a member of the Movement of Opponents for a New Republic (MONR), which opposes the Cuban political system.
Similarly, in January 2023, Cuban dissident and physician Oscar Elías Biscet was detained upon leaving his home in the Diez de Octubre municipality. His arrest coincided with the 10th anniversary of the founding of Project Emilia, of which he is a leading figure. His wife, Elsa Morejón, reported that he was detained by patrol cars and plainclothes officers, and his location remained unknown for several hours. Authorities also cut off her internet access to prevent news of Biscet's arrest from spreading.
In April 2022, a comparable situation occurred when Cuban dissident Carlos Ernesto Díaz González, known on social media as Ktivo Disidente, went missing after a solo protest on the San Rafael Boulevard in Central Havana resulted in his arrest. The stark contrast between the regime's official rhetoric and these recent events highlights the disconnect between Cuba's international discourse and the reality faced by dissidents within the country.
Understanding Allegations of Human Rights Violations in Cuba
What is the Cuban government's official stance on disappearances and torture?
The Cuban government claims that the revolution eradicated disappearances and torture, emphasizing a commitment to human rights and the right to life.
Who are some of the opposition figures recently detained in Cuba?
Notable figures include Yamilka Laffita, Mario Alberto Hernández Leyva, Oscar Elías Biscet, and Carlos Ernesto Díaz González, all of whom have faced detention under controversial circumstances.
How do international organizations view the situation in Cuba regarding human rights?
International organizations frequently express concern over Cuba's human rights record, particularly regarding arbitrary arrests and the treatment of political dissidents.