Andy García Lorenzo, a Cuban political prisoner detained for his involvement in the July 11, 2021 protests, has concluded a 16-day hunger strike. His decision came after pleas from his family, who were gravely concerned about his health. His sister, Roxana García Lorenzo, confirmed the news on social media, expressing alarm over the potential physical damage caused by the strike. "Our priority now is his recovery," she stated, while also highlighting the appalling conditions her brother faces in prison.
Andy initiated the hunger strike in response to the confiscation of personal letters, which he regarded as a violation of his rights. Throughout this period, his parents, Tayri Lorenzo Prado and Pedro García, protested outside the Guamajal prison in Santa Clara, demanding answers from the authorities. "We demand the regime take immediate action. This is not about pride; it's a matter of life and death. If anything happens to Andy, you will be held accountable," they warned in a Facebook post.
Tayri Lorenzo further insisted in another post, "We will continue to raise our voices for our son. We will not be silenced. Return his belongings now." The García Lorenzo family has criticized the inadequate medical care provided during the hunger strike. According to Roxana, although the medical staff claimed to have the necessary supplies, no tests were conducted to assess Andy's health, who was already in a weakened state before the strike.
During a recent visit, his mother described him as "extremely thin, with sunken eyes and difficulty breathing." Andy García Lorenzo is serving a four-year prison sentence, with approximately seven months remaining. Throughout his imprisonment, he has suffered mistreatment, psychological torture, and physical assault. Despite meeting the criteria for conditional release or sentence reduction, these requests have been denied.
Frequently Asked Questions about Andy García Lorenzo's Situation
Why did Andy García Lorenzo initiate a hunger strike?
Andy García Lorenzo began the hunger strike to protest the confiscation of his personal letters, which he viewed as a violation of his rights.
What actions did Andy's family take during his hunger strike?
His family, particularly his parents, staged a protest outside the Guamajal prison, demanding the authorities address the situation and return his belongings.
What was the response of the medical staff to Andy's condition during the hunger strike?
Although the medical staff claimed to have the necessary resources, they did not conduct tests to determine Andy's health status, which was already compromised.