June 14, 2023
Cited article by Reuters
HRRC supports the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights's findings, concluding that the government of Cuba was responsible for the deaths of two political dissidents. Freedom of speech and expression must be protected, and the intentional killing of these men is a grave violation and injustice.
Article Summary
The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has released its report on the investigation of the 2012 deaths of democracy activists Oswaldo Paya and Harold Cepero. The Commission concluded the Cuban government was responsible for the deaths after finding that State authorities were directly involved in the car accident that killed both Paya and Cepero. The driver, Angel Carromero, was arrested, prosecuted, and convicted for the crime of reckless driving despite reports of a government vehicle colliding with Carromero's car.
Prior to the accident, Paya and Cepero had been targets of harassment, violence, threats, and even attempted murder. Friends, family, fellow dissidents, and international human rights groups have all accused the Cuban government of killing the men for their opposing political views. However, Cuba has continually denied the accusations. The Commission also stated in their report that the government had violated Paya's and Cepero's rights to life, honor, and freedom of expression.