The 15-year prison sentence for 24-year-old Cuban political prisoner Mayelín Rodríguez Prado has been upheld by the island's courts. Rodríguez Prado was convicted for her live broadcast on Facebook of anti-government protests in Nuevitas, Camagüey, in August 2022. This development was reported by the independent organization Cubalex and echoed by the feminist platform Alas Tensas.
Currently, Rodríguez Prado is held at the Provincial Women's Prison in Camagüey, known as Granja 5, where she has spoken out about the inhumane and degrading conditions experienced by inmates. Her arrest occurred on August 22, 2022, at her home, following her documentation and dissemination of images showing two young girls being assaulted by repressive forces during the summer protests. After her detention, she was held incommunicado at the State Security facility in Villa María Luisa.
Escalating Charges and Inhumane Detention Conditions
Initially accused of "public disorder," the charges against Rodríguez Prado were later expanded to include "ongoing enemy propaganda" and "sedition," leading to a cumulative 15-year sentence. During her detention, State Security conducted two searches of her home, seeking evidence linking her to criminal activities.
Human rights organizations, including Cubalex and Justicia 11J, have called for her immediate release, labeling her a political prisoner and prisoner of conscience. The United States government has also condemned her detention, demanding her freedom. Alas Tensas warned that Mayelín faces threats of being placed in solitary confinement for protesting the affirmation of her sentence.
Symbol of Repression and Freedom of Expression Suppression
Mayelín Rodríguez Prado’s case has become a symbol of the Cuban regime's repression against those who document and report on protests and human rights abuses on the island. Her plight highlights the increasing criminalization of digital activities and the lack of freedom of expression in Cuba.
FAQs on Cuban Political Prisoners and Freedom of Expression
Why was Mayelín Rodríguez Prado sentenced to 15 years in prison?
Mayelín Rodríguez Prado was sentenced to 15 years in prison for live-streaming anti-government protests in Nuevitas, Camagüey, and was charged with "public disorder," "ongoing enemy propaganda," and "sedition."
What have human rights organizations done in response to her sentencing?
Organizations like Cubalex and Justicia 11J have demanded her immediate release, calling her a political prisoner and a prisoner of conscience, while the U.S. government has also denounced her arrest.
What does Mayelín's case signify regarding freedom of expression in Cuba?
Mayelín's case underscores the increasing repression and criminalization of digital activities and the stark lack of freedom of expression in Cuba.