José Daniel Ferrer, a prominent Cuban dissident and leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), has reported that his home in Santiago de Cuba has been under siege for over 27 hours. The blockade, enforced by members of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) along with plainclothes officers, aims to disrupt the humanitarian efforts he spearheads to assist vulnerable populations.
Ferrer has indicated that the police operation has intensified, with the siege now surpassing 27 hours. The political police and PNR officers have bolstered their presence, actively suppressing those attempting to aid in the distribution of food. "The siege has lasted more than 24 hours. Harassment, detentions, threats, and false 'assistance' offers to collaborators and vulnerable individuals," Ferrer stated on social media.
On Thursday, Ferrer and his team successfully provided meals to 1,281 vulnerable individuals. However, over 40 volunteers and aid recipients were detained and harassed. Among those apprehended were the "Caguairán" brothers, known for supplying wood for the community kitchen, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Despite power outages and ongoing surveillance, UNPACU continues its efforts to prepare meals and offer basic medical care. Dr. Nelva Ismarays Ortega, Ferrer's wife, has been treating dozens of patients daily, highlighting the severe health and social crisis impacting Cuba's most disadvantaged.
Ferrer has accused the Cuban government of enforcing a "real and cruel blockade" against his humanitarian work. "Yesterday, we fed 1,281 people and provided basic medical care to 48. Siege, detentions, and threats," he emphasized, denouncing the persecution of those striving to alleviate hunger in Santiago de Cuba.
The United States government has expressed its disapproval of the police harassment faced by Ferrer and the aid recipients from UNPACU. The State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs condemned the repression and demanded that the Cuban government safeguard its citizens instead of oppressing them.
Many Cuban citizens have voiced their support for Ferrer and his humanitarian mission on social media, with comments such as "Down with the Castro dictatorship. Long live free Cuba! Homeland and Life!" and "José Daniel for president." Others remarked, "UNPACU's beautiful chapter in history will be remembered" and "Congratulations for your commitment to helping those in need." The international community remains vigilant, observing the situation as the police blockade continues to hinder the delivery of food and aid to Santiago de Cuba's most vulnerable residents.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer's Situation
Who is José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer is a Cuban dissident and the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), known for his humanitarian efforts to support vulnerable communities in Cuba.
What actions has the Cuban government taken against Ferrer?
The Cuban government has surrounded Ferrer's home with police and plainclothes officers for over 27 hours, aiming to halt his humanitarian activities. They have also detained and harassed volunteers and aid recipients.
How has the international community responded to Ferrer's situation?
The United States has condemned the harassment and repression faced by Ferrer, urging the Cuban government to protect its citizens instead of oppressing them. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely.