The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has issued Resolution 30/2026, granting precautionary measures to Jonathan David Muir Burgos, a 16-year-old Cuban boy held in the maximum-security prison of Canaleta, located in Ciego de Ávila. The commission determined that his rights to life, personal integrity, and health are at risk of serious harm.
According to a statement released on its website, the IACHR highlighted that Jonathan was detained on March 16 when he accompanied his father, evangelical pastor Elier Muir Ávila, to a police summons in Morón. This arrest followed his participation in the March 13 protests, which were sparked by power outages lasting over 26 hours a day and severe food shortages.
Cuban Government's Lack of Response
The Cuban government failed to provide any information to the IACHR in response to its inquiries, including an official request sent on April 10 to Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, demanding a reply within five days.
On April 2, the Municipal Prosecutor’s Office of Morón ordered provisional detention for Jonathan, charging him with the crime of sabotage, which carries potential sentences ranging from seven to 15 years or more under aggravated circumstances.
Alarming Detention Conditions
Jonathan's defense efforts, including habeas corpus petitions and requests for a change in precautionary measures, were denied by the Provincial Court of Ciego de Ávila.
The conditions of his detention, as described by his family, are deeply concerning. Jonathan suffers from severe dyshidrosis, beta-hemolytic streptococcal and staphylococcal infections that have weakened his immune system, and two untreated intestinal parasites. His father reports that Jonathan's life is in jeopardy.
The young inmate receives only one meal a day, served in a small disposable cup of six to eight ounces, around four in the afternoon. He lacks access to soap and basic hygiene facilities.
Desperate Plea for Help
In the early hours of Thursday at 1:45 a.m., Jonathan called his father from prison. Desperately, he pleaded, "Dad, please get me out of here, I can't take it anymore. The bedbugs are hurting me again; they won't let me sleep, they're biting me, infecting my skin, and I feel like my brain won't hold up much longer."
His father expressed his distress over the situation, noting, "He's malnourished, losing weight every day. He's so thin now."
Frequently Asked Questions About Jonathan David Muir Burgos's Case
What are the charges against Jonathan David Muir Burgos?
Jonathan is charged with the crime of sabotage, which can result in a prison sentence ranging from seven to 15 years or more in aggravated cases.
Why did the IACHR issue precautionary measures for Jonathan?
The IACHR issued precautionary measures because they consider Jonathan's rights to life, personal integrity, and health to be at significant risk.
What are the conditions of Jonathan's detention?
Jonathan is reportedly held in severe conditions, suffering from untreated medical conditions, receiving minimal food, and lacking basic hygiene facilities.