Cuba Cites Former Political Prisoners After Solidarity Call

Cuban state security has summoned four individuals who were previously imprisoned following the July 11, 2021 protests. These individuals were recently released from prison.

The summons comes just a day after these four men publicly called for the release of Denis Hernández Ramírez. Hernández Ramírez is another protester from the July 11 events who was recently sent back to prison.

📄 Who, Where, and When

The four individuals called in are Joel Díaz Hernández, Omar Hernández Calzadilla, Adrián Rodríguez Moreira, and Miguel Díaz Sosa. They are all formerly imprisoned individuals from San Antonio de los Baños, known as ex-'11J' protesters.

The state security forces issued the summons for them to appear tomorrow. The exact date of the summons is April 4, 2026, given the context of the article's date.

📄 Why It Matters

These citations are seen by families and activists as a worrying sign. They believe it is a new attempt to retaliate against individuals who have shown public support for a fellow activist recently returned to jail.

This pattern of summoning individuals is concerning because the same procedure was reportedly used to revoke Denis Hernández's freedom. This suggests a strategy of pressure and control over former political prisoners who express solidarity with those still incarcerated.

📄 What The Sides Are Saying

The four men summoned, along with human rights activists and their families, have spoken out about these actions. They believe it is a clear attempt at retaliation and control.

Human rights organizations note a steady rise in politically motivated detentions in Cuba. They point out that despite the government promoting the release of 51 prisoners as a sign of openness, only about twenty can truly be classified as political prisoners.

The Cuban government has not yet issued a public statement regarding these specific new summonses.

📄 What Comes Next

Activists are warning that the increase in these actions could be part of a larger intimidation policy. This policy aims to discourage any form of expression and solidarity among opposition members within the country.

The situation highlights ongoing concerns about freedom of expression and assembly in Cuba, particularly for those who have previously opposed the government and continue to advocate for political change or the release of fellow activists.