The Cuban opposition leader, José Daniel Ferrer García, recently addressed his critics on Facebook, responding to those who have attacked him. Speaking from Miami, Ferrer expressed a degree of understanding towards the hostility from "agents of the tyranny," but was dismayed that similar vitriol comes from individuals who, like him, claim to fight for a free Cuba.
"I understand when an agent of the tyranny slanders and defames me; they are paid to do so and live under pressure, fear, and blackmail. But when someone who desires freedom for Cuba and the end of tyranny, as I do, resorts to the same tactics, I find it incomprehensible," Ferrer wrote.
Ferrer recounted his more than 12 years of imprisonment under "horrific conditions," including the beatings, torture, and humiliations endured throughout his opposition career. "I am just a humble farmer from Palmarito de Cauto, who has spent over 12 years in prison under terrible conditions. Instead of attacking me without reason more than they fight the tyranny, they should emulate what I have done in Cuba over 30 years, and it would be far more commendable," he stated.
He also noted that these attacks do not harm him personally but rather affect all Cubans striving for change. "The path they are on does no harm to me; it harms themselves. Here and there, there and here, I will always be at the forefront of the fight for Cuba’s freedom and well-being, alongside many good Cubans," Ferrer concluded.
Enduring Leadership from Exile
Since arriving in the United States, Ferrer has reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful resistance against the Cuban regime and has initiated an economic support network for families of political prisoners, working alongside other exiles. In a recent initiative, he announced from Miami the dispatch of financial aid, emphasizing that "political prisoners need support and political, spiritual, and economic accompaniment."
In recent statements, Ferrer has reiterated that Raúl Castro retains real power through the military and economic structures of GAESA, while Miguel Díaz-Canel is merely "the face of the collapse of Castroism." He previously commented that "the Castros have set Díaz-Canel up for failure."
The opposition leader insists that his exile is not the end of his activism but a new phase of struggle from outside the island. In prior interviews, he has advocated for non-violent and clandestine resistance as the most effective means to bring about the collapse of the communist system in Cuba. "By massively undertaking numerous details across Cuba, we create the mindset and public opinion needed to topple the dictatorship," he asserted.
As a symbol of Cuban civic resistance, Ferrer remains steadfast in his commitment despite years of imprisonment, torture, and exile. His recent message reflects that unwavering resolve: there is no room for despair as long as Cuba remains unfree.
Key Questions About José Daniel Ferrer's Activism
What is José Daniel Ferrer’s main criticism of fellow freedom advocates?
Ferrer criticizes fellow freedom advocates who slander and defame him, questioning why they would attack someone who shares their goal of a free Cuba.
How does Ferrer continue his activism from exile?
From exile, Ferrer has focused on peaceful resistance and has established a network to provide economic support for families of political prisoners, while continuing to advocate for non-violent resistance.
What does Ferrer believe about the current leadership in Cuba?
Ferrer believes that Raúl Castro still controls the real power in Cuba through GAESA, and views Miguel Díaz-Canel as merely a figurehead representing the regime's collapse.