The parents of Cuban political prisoner Andy García Lorenzo remain planted in front of the Guamajal prison, in Santa Clara, while their son, on a hunger strike for 11 days, demands the return of some personal letters confiscated by the prison authorities.
Roxana García Lorenzo, the inmate’s sister, shared on social networks that andy’s health is uncertain, since, despite the strike, no medical examinations have been performed.
The young man’s family demands immediate responses from the Cuban regime, warning that the situation is “life or death” and holding the authorities responsible for any outcome.
They also denounced that Andy continues too be a victim of systematic human rights violations, recalling that in a previous hunger strike he was attacked and subjected to inhumane conditions.
Andy García Lorenzo, who is serving almost four years in prison, was arrested in July 2021 during the historic popular protests in Cuba. Even though he was briefly released from prison in May 2022, he was later transferred to a work camp for inmates.
Currently,he faces the authorities’ refusal to grant him parole or a reduction in his sentence.
“Andy’s life depends on the strength we can exert together,” said the political prisoner’s sister, urging solidarity in the face of a situation they consider critical.
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Interview with Dr.Lucia Mendoza, human Rights Expert, on the Situation of Cuban Political Prisoner Andy García Lorenzo
editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us, Dr.Mendoza. The case of Andy García Lorenzo, a Cuban political prisoner currently on a hunger strike, has garnered meaningful attention. Can you provide us with an overview of his situation?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: Thank you for having me. Andy garcía Lorenzo was arrested during the historic protests in Cuba in July 2021 and has sence been serving nearly four years in prison. His family has raised urgent alarms about his health as he has now been on a hunger strike for 11 days, demanding the return of personal letters confiscated by prison authorities. His situation is dire,with his family warning that it is ”life or death.”
Editor, Time.news: That’s alarming. What human rights violations has Andy reportedly faced during his imprisonment?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: Sadly, Andy’s case is not isolated. He has been a victim of systematic human rights violations, including inhumane treatment during a previous hunger strike. His family has consistently reported that authorities are threatening his well-being, exacerbating his already precarious situation. This is indicative of the broader repression faced by political dissidents in Cuba.
Editor,Time.news: Andy’s sister has mentioned that no medical examinations have been performed on him during this critical time. what are the implications of such neglect?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: The lack of medical care for someone on a hunger strike is deeply concerning. It not only jeopardizes Andy’s physical health but also reflects a broader pattern of neglect towards political prisoners in Cuba. This situation raises ethical questions about the responsibility of prison authorities to ensure the health and safety of inmates. The failure to provide medical attention can be seen as cruel treatment and is a violation of international human rights standards.
Editor, time.news: Do you think the Cuban government’s refusal to respond to the family’s demands will have consequences for them?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: Yes, absolutely. Ignoring the family’s calls puts the government in a precarious position, especially as they publicly hold authorities responsible for any potential negative outcomes related to Andy’s health.This situation could ignite further international condemnation and increase pressure on the Cuban regime from human rights organizations and foreign governments.
Editor, Time.news: What steps can the international community take to support individuals like Andy García Lorenzo?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: The international community needs to unite and amplify the calls for the release of political prisoners in Cuba. This can be done through diplomatic channels, public awareness campaigns, and active engagement with organizations that advocate for human rights. Furthermore, leveraging social media to spread awareness can create a grassroots movement advocating for justice and accountability.
Editor, Time.news: What message do you think Andy’s sister, Roxana García Lorenzo, is trying to convey to the public with her appeal for solidarity?
Dr. Lucia Mendoza: Roxana is urging collective action, emphasizing that Andy’s life depends on the strength of community support. She is highlighting the critical nature of the situation, reminding the public that political imprisonment affects not just the individuals involved, but also thier families and society at large. her message is a call for unity in the face of oppression,stressing that solidarity can amplify their voices.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you, dr. Mendoza, for your insights into this pressing issue. Your perspective helps illuminate the ongoing struggles faced by political prisoners in Cuba.
Dr. Lucia mendoza: Thank you for shedding light on this critical situation. Awareness is the first step towards change.