Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo, wife of Cuban dissident José Daniel Ferrer, has not seen her husband since last April. On Monday, July 29, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (Unpacu) turned 54 while incarcerated in the maximum-security prison Mar Verde in Santiago de Cuba. Yet again, the regime barred him from seeing his family, who are demanding proof of life.
In an audio clip obtained by CiberCuba, Nelva Ortega Tamayo explains that she, along with Ferrer's children, Fátima Victoria and Daniel José, went to Mar Verde on Monday to see him and celebrate his birthday. "Unfortunately, once again, this right was denied," she lamented.
Last April, the authorities granted a mere two-minute proof of life meeting with her husband, and since then, no one has been allowed to see José Daniel Ferrer. On his 54th birthday, the guards at Mar Verde only accepted the meal and dessert brought by his wife and children.
"The murderous Castro-Canel-communist dictatorship continues its effort, through prison authorities and the so-called State Security, to disappear my husband, slowly kill him, and bury him alive. They haven't been satisfied with having him doubly kidnapped since August 2021, in that tiny punishment cell, isolated from the entire prison community, under inhumane, cruel, and degrading conditions; being a victim of mistreatment, violence, both physical and psychological torture; with poor-quality food, non-potable water, and no dental or medical care despite his ailments, including those developed in prison," Nelva Ortega Tamayo pointed out.
The wife of the opposition leader also denounces that for the past year and four months, her husband has not been allowed to make a phone call or see his children. "The last time our little Daniel José saw him was on June 22, 2023, after three months and under enforced disappearance, as revealed by the great Cuban patriot Laura Jusino," she said, referring to a Cuban émigré with contacts at Mar Verde prison who posted a video on Facebook accusing that Ferrer was in the hands of "hitmen" and his whereabouts were a "state secret."
For Nelva Ortega, it is painful to see her son's reaction each time their visit is denied, following the excitement of preparing the "jaba" (care package). "Without a doubt, Raúl Castro and Díaz-Canel are primarily responsible for the physical and psychological well-being of José Daniel Ferrer. You demonstrate your fear every day of an innocent man, a great patriot, son, father, brother, husband, friend, a brave leader, determined, selfless, whom you have tortured all this time trying to break him and force him to accept exile against his will, for his unwavering dedication, for being willing to give his own life for the defense of freedom, democracy, justice, and respect for the human rights of all Cubans."
Although the family couldn't see him on his birthday, Nelva Ortega wishes for the recovery of his damaged health and sends him encouragement and strength. "We will continue to demand not only proof of life but also the restoration of his prison and human rights, and above all, his immediate unconditional freedom."
She calls for the release of not only José Daniel Ferrer but all Cuban political prisoners. She also hopes for the fall of the Castro-communist dictatorship.
Understanding the Plight of José Daniel Ferrer
In light of the ongoing situation surrounding José Daniel Ferrer, here are some frequently asked questions that provide further insight into his circumstances and the broader implications.
Who is José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer is a prominent Cuban dissident and leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (Unpacu). He has been a vocal critic of the Cuban government and has faced multiple incarcerations due to his activism.
What is the current situation of José Daniel Ferrer?
Ferrer is currently held in the maximum-security prison Mar Verde in Santiago de Cuba. He has been denied visits from his family for several months and is reportedly subjected to inhumane conditions and mistreatment.
What actions are being taken to support José Daniel Ferrer?
Ferrer’s family and supporters continue to demand proof of life, the restoration of his rights, and his immediate unconditional release. They are also calling for the release of all Cuban political prisoners and the end of the Castro-communist dictatorship.