Yosvany Sánchez, an inmate serving his sentence in a Mayabeque province prison, passed away on Thursday. His death was attributed to health complications, reportedly worsened by inadequate and delayed medical attention, as claimed by Cuban activists.
Alberto Fonseca, an activist and founder of Los Mambises, shared on Facebook, "Inmate Yosvany Sánchez from Quivicán prison's unit 13 just passed away. He had diarrhea, and when they finally took him to the infirmary for an IV, he died. They waited too long to treat him."
This tragic incident is not isolated. It follows a series of recent inmate deaths under alarming conditions. In October, Gerardo Díaz Alonso's family reported his death was due to a lack of specialized medical care. Similarly, Yosandri Mulet Almarales, a protester from July 11th, died in August after authorities ignored his severe physical decline.
Moreover, a prisoner in Santiago de Cuba reportedly died from malnutrition at the beginning of December. However, the most high-profile case in recent months involved Manuel Jesús Guillén, a political prisoner from the July 11th protests. His death, reported in December, was initially attributed to suicide by official sources.
His mother, Dania María Esplugas Falcó, challenged the official narrative in an interview with Martí Noticias. She accused prison authorities of murdering her son, covering up the crime, and deceiving his family about the true circumstances of his death.
These deaths have sparked widespread criticism of the Cuban regime for the inhumane conditions in prisons and the alleged use of medical neglect as a tool of repression. Numerous organizations have demanded independent investigations and adherence to basic prisoner rights, yet the Cuban government remains silent amidst mounting allegations.
Cuban Prison Conditions and Medical Negligence
What happened to Yosvany Sánchez?
Yosvany Sánchez, an inmate in Mayabeque, died due to delayed medical attention for his health complications, according to activists.
How have other inmates been affected?
Several inmates, including Gerardo Díaz Alonso and Yosandri Mulet Almarales, have died under concerning conditions, allegedly due to inadequate medical care.
What are the allegations against the Cuban government?
The Cuban government faces criticism for inhumane prison conditions and accusations of using medical neglect as a means of repression.
What actions are being demanded by organizations?
Organizations are calling for independent investigations and the enforcement of basic rights for prisoners.