A university educator in Cuba has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for using a black marker to scribble slogans against leader Miguel Díaz-Canel across various public spaces, including the university where he was employed.
On September 8, 2025, the Villa Clara Provincial People's Court, within its State Security Crimes Division, pronounced the sentence against Aniel Manuel Martín Barroso, aged 42, who taught at the University "José Martí Pérez" in Sancti Spíritus.
The court found him guilty of charges relating to propaganda against the constitutional order, contempt, and property damage, resulting in a combined sentence of ten years behind bars.
Alongside imprisonment, the punishment also prohibits him from teaching in educational institutions and includes further restrictions, barring him from certain places, including his former university.
According to the prosecution, his "crimes" involved inscribing phrases critical of the regime and Díaz-Canel with a permanent marker in various locations, including the academic institution where he taught.
The case proceeded through a regular judicial process, handled by the division specializing in State Security Crimes, typically reserved for politically sensitive cases. The prosecution sought a 10-year sentence, which the court ultimately confirmed.
Currently, Martín Barroso is held at Nieves Morejón Prison. Family members and close friends have publicly criticized the prison's conditions, citing overcrowding, poor sanitation, and mistreatment of inmates.
The harshness of the sentence—ten years for slogans written with a marker—has sparked outrage among activists and citizens both in and beyond Cuba. They view this as yet another instance of the regime's increasing repression against any form of dissent, even when it involves symbolic, non-violent acts.
This incident underscores the severe repercussions in Cuba for voicing political opposition: losing one's freedom, career, and life aspirations due to a sentence scribbled on a wall.
Understanding the Legal Repercussions in Cuba
What were the charges against Aniel Manuel Martín Barroso?
He was charged with propaganda against the constitutional order, contempt, and property damage.
Why has the sentence caused outrage?
The sentence is considered excessively harsh for non-violent, symbolic acts, reflecting the regime's increasing intolerance of dissent.
Where is Martín Barroso currently incarcerated?
He is held at Nieves Morejón Prison, where conditions have been criticized for overcrowding and poor sanitation.