The sister of Cuban political prisoner Duannis Dabel León Taboada recently endured a violent attack by five women on the streets of Havana. "Yesterday, one of my daughters was assaulted by five women right in the open. There was no reason for it as my daughter has no conflicts with anyone," declared Jenni Taboada, mother of the victim and vocal advocate for the release of political prisoners, in a Facebook post.
Adding to the outrage, Jenni Taboada also revealed that the incident was recorded by the local PNR (National Revolutionary Police) sector chief. "My daughter remains baffled by the level of aggression she faced. Witnesses have confirmed that the person filming the attack was indeed the sector chief. Despite knowing she was outnumbered and in danger, this officer did not approach or offer any assistance," Taboada explained.
Holding the Cuban government accountable, Taboada asserted, "I don't believe in coincidences, and I hold this dictatorship responsible for anything that happens to my children and family. They should not dare to harm my daughters."
Jenni Taboada: A Voice for the Oppressed
Jenni Taboada has garnered significant public attention for her relentless fight for her son's freedom. Last July, she staged a protest outside the Combinado del Este prison in Havana after being denied access to visit her son, who had been on a hunger strike for over a week. Her son's hunger strike, an act of protest against his unjust sentence, drew widespread concern among Cubans until Jenni's pleas led to its cessation.
In March, Taboada reported being sexually assaulted and mistreated at the Capri police station in Havana after responding to a police summons. Her son, Duannis, was sentenced to 14 years in prison following his involvement in the anti-government protests on July 11, 2021. Initially, his sedition charge carried a 21-year sentence, which was later reduced to 14 years after an appeal. The charges alleged damages to a police vehicle, although the family maintains he was simply exercising his right to peaceful protest.
A Mother's Fight Against Injustice
Jenni Taboada continues to hold the Cuban state accountable for her son's safety. The case of Duannis León Taboada symbolizes, for many, the spirit of a youthful generation who dared to challenge the regime, only to face imprisonment. It also highlights the resilience of a mother who, despite her anguish and fear, perseveres in her quest to free her son.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Duannis León Taboada Case
What led to the attack on Duannis León Taboada's sister?
The attack appears to have been unprovoked, as reported by her mother, Jenni Taboada. It involved five women and was filmed by the local PNR sector chief, raising questions about the motives behind the aggression.
How has Jenni Taboada responded to the attack?
Jenni Taboada has publicly condemned the attack and holds the Cuban government responsible for her family's safety, insisting there are no coincidences in such acts of violence.
What was Duannis León Taboada convicted for?
He was sentenced to 14 years in prison for his participation in the July 11, 2021, anti-government protests. The charges included alleged damages to police property, though his family asserts he was merely protesting peacefully.