posted by: Natasha G. 15 hours ago
The Cuban government agreed to move political prisoners closer to their
homes, after much pressure by human rights groups and the Catholic
Church as well as a hunger strike by journalist Guillermo Fariñas.
Increased pressure started after activist Orlando Zapata died after 85
days of going on a hunger strike. An estimated 200 people are imprisoned
and almost 30 are considered to be in poor health, according to human
rights groups.
So far seven activists have been moved, and prisoner Alfredo Calzado has
been released after 18 months in jail for being a "pre-criminal social
danger." Besides transferring prisoners to their native provinces, those
in poor health will be transferred to hospitals. The government has also
conceded to stop harassing the Ladies in White, wives of prisoners who
stage protests every week.
This is remarkable news considering that the Cuban government refuses to
recognize imprisoned activists as political prisoners, claiming they are
mercenaries sent by the U.S. to undermine the system.
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