Cuban dissident rapper and political prisoner Maykel “El Osorbo” Castillo is facing new punishments after speaking out against the communist Castro dictatorship from his prison cell. With international organizations taking up his cause and calling attention to the brutality of the Cuban regime, the dictatorship is getting revenge on the defenseless prisoner of conscience.
Via CiberCuba (my translation):
Rapper Maykel Osorbo facing new punishments in a Cuban prison
The situation for Cuban rapper and political prisoner Maykel “Osorbo” Castillo is worsening at the Pinar del Río prison where he is serving his sentence, and now he is facing new punishments.
In a phone call, Osorbo said that they suspended another conjugal visit and canceled all his visits, warning him that these measures were just the beginning of further harassment.
The publication of a photo of him smuggled out clandestinely from within the prison triggered a strong reaction from the authorities, who seek to silence his voice and maintain complete control. Alarms were also raised over his promises to sew his mouth shut as a sign of protest and getting a tattoo that reads “Patria y Vida” (Homeland and Life).Maykel “Osorbo’s” words reflect his exhaustion and indicates he is in the midst of a war against injustices.
However, his willingness to fight does not cease, which he makes evident in a statement expressing his determination to face the adversities.
Despite the imposed obstacles, he maintains strength and faith in God, assuring that his spirit remains stronger than those who seek to oppress him.
Regarding the prison conditions, various concerning aspects have been pointed out. He was transferred to a punishment cell, where it is expected he will face even more difficulties. Additionally, threats from both other inmates and prison officials have been reported.
The performer of “Patria y vida” suffers from a lack of sanitary conditions, food-related issues, and other issues within the penitentiary system.
Complaints about the lack of access to his medical records and the refusal to provide them to his family raise suspicions of possible irregularities or conditions authorities wish to conceal. These actions raise questions about the treatment and medical care Maykel “Osorbo” is receiving.
The international community demands justice and respect for human rights in Cuba. Complaints and testimonies about prison conditions and reprisals against those who raise their voices continue to generate concern and calls for action.