Cuban political prisoner Luis Barrios Diaz passed away at the La Covadonga hospital in Havana on Sunday due to negligence by the prison authorities, as reported by the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH). The NGO, located in Madrid, stated that Barrios Díaz, aged 37, began experiencing respiratory issues in August and was admitted to the infirmary of prison 1580 in San Miguel del Padrón, Havana. Despite doctor’s advisement for him to stay hospitalized, the prison authorities decided to return him to prison due to lack of fuel for constant surveillance. His health deteriorated and he died after undergoing emergency surgery for respiratory complications on Saturday.
The OCDH called for the immediate release of all political prisoners and pointed out the deteriorating health of other political prisoners such as Félix Navarro and José Daniel Ferrer. The organization also requested for the statement of democratic governments and the European Union regarding the serious situation of political prisoners in Cuba, emphasizing the responsibility of the state to provide adequate medical services to prisoners.
Luis Barrios Diaz was previously sentenced to nine years in prison for participating in the historic protests of July 11, 2021. His death is a clear indication that Cuba’s government continues to ignore international demands for respecting human rights and providing basic medical care to its citizens. It is time for democratic leaders around the world to take action against this rogue regime and demand accountability for their actions.
The OCDH urged all parties involved in this issue to act swiftly and decisively in order to prevent further human rights violations from occurring. They also demanded that authorities investigate Luis Barrios Diaz’s death thoroughly and ensure that justice is served.
It is important to note that this incident highlights once again how crucial it is for governments around the world to prioritize human rights and hold those responsible accountable. The ongoing violation of these rights must be condemned strongly by everyone who believes in democracy and freedom.
In conclusion, Luis Barrios Diaz’s death serves as a stark reminder of how far Cuba has fallen from its potential as a prosperous nation with a bright future ahead. It is essential that we continue our efforts towards promoting democracy, human rights, and justice until true freedom prevails across Cuba.