Sulmira Martínez Pérez: Imprisoned Without Trial for Facebook Posts
By Alfredo Herrera Sánchez | yucabyte.org
On January 10, 2023, 21-year-old Cuban Sulmira Martínez Pérez posted on Facebook advocating for organized protests, reminiscent of the events of July 11. Her posts called for action beyond digital activism, signaling plans for street demonstrations. That same day, she was arrested at her home and has been detained without trial at the El Guatao women’s prison ever since, turning 22 while incarcerated.
Health and Prison Conditions
Sulmira has faced severe health challenges, including a respiratory infection exacerbated by the harsh conditions in prison. Her mother, Norma Pérez, reported her daughter’s recovery from pneumonia with the help of medications sent by U.S. influencers. However, Sulmira’s overall well-being remains precarious due to the inadequate prison conditions, including poor nutrition, lack of hygiene, and exposure to cold water.
Norma detailed the hostile treatment Sulmira endures, including time in solitary confinement and altercations with prison officials. The emotional toll on both Sulmira and her mother is significant, with Norma often struggling to provide basic necessities for her daughter due to economic hardship and social isolation.
Surveillance and Harassment
Norma is under constant surveillance by State Security agents, who monitor her home and communications. Despite this, she remains focused on supporting Sulmira, knowing that her daughter’s situation would worsen if she were also imprisoned. Norma faces financial challenges, partly due to her informal work selling cigarettes, which has led to fines and further police harassment.
Legal and Human Rights Violations
Sulmira’s arrest and prolonged detention highlight systemic human rights abuses in Cuba. Initially accused of “propaganda against the constitutional order,” her charges shifted to “incitement to commit a crime,” which carries potential penalties of up to two years in prison or a hefty fine. Her case reflects broader issues of arbitrary detention, lack of fair trials, and suppression of free speech.
Organizations like Cubalex and Derechos Digitales have documented these violations, emphasizing the infringement of multiple rights, including freedom from torture, the right to a fair trial, and the right to privacy. Sulmira's coerced appearance in state media further illustrates the regime’s use of propaganda and psychological coercion.
Advocacy and International Attention
Norma’s advocacy for her daughter includes speaking out against the injustices Sulmira faces. The visibility provided by independent media and human rights organizations is crucial in protecting political prisoners like Sulmira. Luz Escobar, a journalist, notes that continuous media coverage and family advocacy can sometimes mitigate harsh treatment, despite the risks involved.
The case of Sulmira Martínez Pérez exemplifies the Cuban government’s repressive tactics against dissent and the crucial role of international attention in challenging these practices.
Read the full article in English on yucabyte.org, assisted by Google Translate.