Brief biographies on 7 Cubans released to Spain
The Associated Press
A brief biography on the seven Cuban political prisoners released and
then sent to Spain:
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LESTER GONZALEZ - Independent journalist from Santa Clara, youngest of
the 75 opposition members arrested in Cuba in March 2003. Member of
Reason, Truth and Freedom Human Rights Movement. Sentenced to 20 years
in prison. He reportedly has a number of health problems, including a
hernia operation he underwent in 2008 and anxiety from being separated
from his daughter.
Source: English Pen and Amnesty International.
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OMAR RUIZ - Independent journalist from Santa Clara working for a group
not recognized by Cuba's government. Over 60 years old. Sentenced to 18
years in prison. Reportedly has prostate problem and high blood
pressure. Opposition websites say he is son of evangelical pastor.
Source: Amnesty International.
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ANTONIO VILLARREAL - Signature collector from Santa Clara for the Varela
Project democracy drive. Sentenced to 15 years in prison. He reportedly
started a hunger strike along with five other inmates at Boniato prison.
The Varela Project collected thousands of signatures from Cuban voters
seeking a referendum on civil rights such as freedom of speech,
assembly, press and business ownership. The signatures were delivered to
Cuba's parliament, which shelved the proposal.
Source: Amnesty International.
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JULIO CESAR GALVEZ RODRIGUEZ - Journalist from Havana. Sentenced to 15
years in prison. He was allegedly fired in 2001 from two official radio
stations for collaborating with Cuba Free Press.
Source: Amnesty International.
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JOSE LUIS GARCIA PANEQUE - Plastic surgeon from Las Tunas who received a
24-year sentence. He was a member of the unofficial Cuban Independent
Medical Association. He was also involved in independent journalism.
Source: Amnesty International.
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PABLO PACHECO AVILA - Independent journalist from Ciego de Avila,
sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Source: Amnesty International.
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RICARDO GONZALEZ ALFONSO - Independent journalist from Havana who did
work for Reporters Without Borders. Sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Maintained a private library at his home. Family members concerned about
his health.
Source: Amnesty International.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/07/13/1728104/brief-biographies-on-7-cubans.html
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