http://www.care2.com/causes/human-rights/blog/small-but-important-victory-for-political-prisoners-in-cuba/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.
Topic: Small But Important Victory For Political Prisoners in Cuba (Read 388 times)