Cuban Prosecutors Request 10-Year Prison Sentence for Young Influencer Over Facebook Posts
Sulmira Martínez Pérez was detained after posting a series of messages on Facebook encouraging Cubans to take to the streets to protest against the regime of Miguel Díaz-Canel.
By martinoticias.com
The Cuban regime has requested a 10-year prison sentence for Sulmira Martínez Pérez, a young influencer known on social media as Salem. Martínez Pérez was arrested in January 2023 due to her Facebook posts encouraging Cubans to protest against the regime of Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Accusations and Charges
According to Martí Noticias, Martínez Pérez, 22, is accused of inciting public disorder and committing crimes against the constitutional order. The prosecution’s request includes a two-year sentence for contempt and a nine-year sentence for crimes against the constitutional order, resulting in a combined 10-year prison term. Additionally, the penalties include deprivation of rights, confiscation of property, and a prohibition on leaving the country, as stipulated by articles 42.1, 52.1, and 59.1 of the actual Cuban Penal Code.
Martínez Pérez has been detained since January 10, 2023, and is currently held in provisional custody at the Guatao prison. Despite having no prior criminal record, she remains incarcerated.
Family’s Response and Legal Process
Norma Pérez, Sulmira’s mother, has spoken out about the charges, asserting that her daughter has been unfairly accused and expressing her frustration with the legal process. She claims that the allegations against her daughter are false and that the young influencer is extremely upset about the situation.
The prosecution plans to present substantial evidence during the trial, including a coerced statement from Martínez Pérez, which she was allegedly forced to read from a pre-written script. Additionally, the prosecution will use evidence gathered from her phone and her home in Las Guásimas, a neighborhood in the Arroyo Naranjo municipality of Havana.
Political Motivation
The charges against Martínez Pérez appear to be politically motivated, aimed at punishing her for encouraging public demonstrations. Her Facebook posts called for a repetition of the peaceful protests that took place on July 11, 2021, and included slogans like "A la calle, hasta el triunfo, Patria y Vida" (To the streets, until victory, Homeland and Life).
During her detention, Martínez Pérez was allegedly forced to make a filmed confession, which was later broadcast on state television. Her mother claims that this confession was obtained under duress, with promises of release if she complied.
Public Outcry and Repercussions
The case has sparked significant public outcry, with many viewing it as an attempt to silence dissent and use as an example by the dictatorship to discourage others from speaking out against the government. The prosecution’s severe request highlights the regime’s harsh stance on freedom of expression and political activism.
Norma Pérez continues to advocate for her daughter, expressing her determination to speak out despite threats from authorities. She emphasizes the importance of freedom of expression and stands firm in her support for Sulmira’s right to voice her opinions and be free.
Summary and Call to Action
Sulmira Martínez Pérez’s case underscores the ongoing repression in Cuba, where dissent is met with severe punitive measures. Her situation illustrates the broader struggle for human rights and freedom of expression on the island. As the trial approaches, it is crucial to raise awareness and advocate for her release, emphasizing the need for international solidarity with Cuban activists and influencers who risk their freedom to call for change.
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