José Luis Tan Estrada, a Cuban journalist now living in exile in Guyana, has publicly expressed concerns for his safety, holding the regime in Cuba responsible for any threats against him. Through his social media platforms, Tan has highlighted the precarious situation he faces being stranded in a foreign country due to the actions of the Cuban government.
In his detailed statement, Tan revealed that he has been in exile in Guyana for a month and a half, during which he has encountered several incidents jeopardizing his security. He recounted an alarming encounter where a man with a Cuban accent menacingly warned him, "Don't keep talking too much crap, we know where you are," after he disembarked from public transportation.
Tan has also reported experiencing online threats and being watched in the vicinity of his lodging. Among other troubling events, he described being struck in the leg by a motorcyclist and seeing the same individual under suspicious circumstances days later. Additionally, he noted that someone filmed him without permission at the building where he resides. "Coincidences don't exist. I hold the Cuban regime accountable for anything that might happen to me," he stressed in his post.
"Intimidation and harassment will not silence me. Let it be known clearly, I will continue to pursue journalism, fight for the freedom of political prisoners, and expose ongoing human rights abuses in Cuba," Tan affirmed.
Recognized for his humanitarian campaigns and vocal criticism of the Cuban regime via social media, Tan Estrada endured imprisonment in Villa Marista after leaving Cuba, spending a week in a torture cell. He recounted losing two teeth due to inadequate nutrition, stating he had to chew "either a salt rock or a stone in the rice."
He also shared the challenges he faced in receiving medical care in Cuba, having to do so "in hiding, wearing a mask and a cap," as people were afraid to assist him for fear of repercussions. Although friends supported him clandestinely, the clinic officials were wary of the regime's potential retaliation if discovered.
According to Tan, state security often targeted his social media activity and journalistic efforts because of the "reach of his posts" and especially the "humanitarian aid" he managed. He emphasized that officials disapproved of his posts because they "demeaned the achievements of the Cuban Revolution."
Tan further explained that the State Security "did not facilitate" his departure from Cuba; instead, they hindered his plans.
Key Concerns and Threats Faced by Cuban Exiles
What specific threats has José Luis Tan Estrada faced in Guyana?
In Guyana, Tan has encountered threats including menacing warnings from individuals with Cuban accents, being followed, and unsolicited filming, all of which have heightened his concerns for safety.
How has Tan's journalistic work contributed to these threats?
Tan's journalistic efforts, particularly his social media posts and humanitarian activities, have been targeted by Cuban state security due to their reach and criticism of the regime, which has resulted in increased threats.
What challenges did Tan face when seeking medical attention in Cuba?
In Cuba, Tan had to seek medical help in secrecy, often disguised, as healthcare providers feared government retaliation for assisting him, reflecting the oppressive environment under the regime.