An inmate named Ramón Alayo Anglada, also known as "Palmita," passed away last Wednesday at Boniato Prison, located in Santiago de Cuba province. The independent organization Cubalex reported on the incident, highlighting the dire situation in Cuban prisons. Alayo Anglada, who was housed in Unit 11, had been pleading for medical attention for several weeks due to a noticeable mass on the right side of his neck. Despite his urgent requests, he received no response from prison authorities.
As Alayo Anglada's condition worsened, he was finally transferred to Ambrosio Grillo Hospital in the town of El Cobre on March 17. Unfortunately, he died there on March 19. Up to now, the official cause of death has not been disclosed by the authorities.
Cubalex emphasized that Alayo Anglada's case is not an isolated incident. Recently, other inmates have also died without receiving necessary medical care that could have saved their lives. Since the beginning of 2025, the organization has documented at least nine deaths at Boniato Prison. This facility is notorious for its hazardous conditions, including overcrowding, malnutrition, lack of medical attention, and unsanitary environments.
On March 1, the deaths of Giovanis Ferrer Verdecia, aged 46, and Israel Cabrera were reported, both occurring under "inhumane conditions." These individuals, while incarcerated, are under the direct care of the state, making the prison authorities responsible for ensuring their well-being, including access to basic services like healthcare and nutrition.
Cubalex stressed that the death of an inmate is not merely an accident but a "serious human rights violation and an institutional failure that requires investigation and accountability." In early February, Giovanis Ortega and Irai Nieto died at Boniato, allegedly due to severe malnutrition and neglect. They were held in Unit No. 2, infamously known as the "underweight floor," where prisoners endure extreme hunger and lack of medical care.
A few weeks later, Osbety Girón, a 51-year-old inmate from Unit No. 13, succumbed to tuberculosis after spending several days hospitalized. Following his death, the unit was quarantined to prevent the potential spread of the disease among the prison population.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prison Conditions in Cuba
Why are prison conditions in Cuba considered dangerous?
Cuban prisons are notorious for overcrowding, poor nutrition, lack of medical care, and unsanitary conditions, which pose serious risks to inmates' health and safety.
What responsibilities do prison authorities have towards inmates?
Prison authorities are responsible for ensuring the safety, health, and basic needs of inmates, including providing adequate medical care and nutrition.
What actions are being taken to address the issues in Cuban prisons?
Organizations like Cubalex are documenting and reporting these violations, advocating for investigations and accountability for the human rights abuses occurring in Cuban prisons.