On Thursday, the group Justicia 11J reported that the Cuban government has seemingly restarted the release of political prisoners after a hiatus of over a month during which no penitentiary benefits were granted, despite numerous calls from the international community. The organization stated, "At Justicia 11J, we have received information suggesting that the releases have resumed as a result of negotiations."
Among those freed on Thursday are Iván Mauricio Arocha Arocha, Brusnelvis Adrián Cabrera Gutiérrez, Ohaurys Rondón Rivero, and Yaquelin Castillo García.
Recent Releases of Political Prisoners
Iván Mauricio Arocha Arocha, a political prisoner from the July 11 protests, was released on January 27th. This release appears to be part of the regime's announcement to grant freedom to 553 individuals convicted of various offenses. These releases occurred amidst negotiations with the United States. Arocha Arocha was one of six members of the Arocha Quiala family detained during the Caney protests in Santiago de Cuba.
Similarly, Brusnelvis Adrián Cabrera Gutiérrez, another political prisoner from the July 11 protests, was also released today under conditional freedom. In August 2023, his mother was informed that he would face a new trial for "disorders in penitentiary establishments" after he protested against harassment by authorities during a family visit.
Opposition member Ohaurys Rondón Rivero from the Movement for a New Republic (MONR) was likewise granted conditional freedom on the same day as part of the release process. His case gained attention through Justicia 11J's 2023 campaign, "Call to Action for Political Prisoners."
Additionally, Yaquelin Castillo García was released under similar conditions.
Confirmation of Releases by José Daniel Ferrer
Opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer, who was part of the initial group of released political prisoners, confirmed the release of Iván Mauricio Arocha Arocha. Ferrer stated, "I've been told that Iván Arocha was released from Boniato Prison today, and others are being transferred to 'Mar Verde' prison for subsequent release."
Warning Regarding the Nature of Releases
Despite these releases, Cuban authorities have emphasized that this is neither an amnesty nor a pardon process. Last month, Maricela Sosa Ravelo, vice president of the Supreme Court, declared, "This is not an amnesty nor a pardon," as these would imply the complete extinction of the sanction. Instead, the regime is implementing "early release benefits," which require those freed to adhere to conditions set by the authorities, such as "demonstrating good behavior," with the threat of re-imprisonment if the regime deems it necessary.
The releases had been on hold since the end of January when approximately 172 individuals were freed from prison.
Understanding the Recent Political Prisoner Releases in Cuba
What led to the resumption of political prisoner releases in Cuba?
The resumption of political prisoner releases in Cuba is reportedly due to negotiations, although specific details of these negotiations have not been disclosed by the authorities or involved parties.
What conditions must freed prisoners adhere to under Cuba's early release benefits?
Freed prisoners must comply with conditions such as demonstrating good behavior, as set by Cuban authorities. Failure to meet these conditions could result in re-arrest.
How many political prisoners were released at the end of January?
Approximately 172 political prisoners were released at the end of January, as part of a broader release process involving individuals convicted of various offenses.