Félix and Saylí Navarro nominated for Sakharov Prize

Félix Navarro Rodríguez and his daughter, Saylí Navarro Álvarez, have been nominated for the European Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. The nomination was led by a newly formed committee of former Cuban political prisoners, including activists Normando Hernández, Pablo Pacheco, and Ángel de Fana. This intergenerational group aims to advocate for the release of those detained for political reasons in Cuba.

The father and daughter were imprisoned following anti-government protests in July 2021 in Matanzas province. Félix is serving a nine-year sentence, while Saylí is serving eight years. Amnesty International has recognized them as prisoners of conscience. Reports have surfaced regarding harsh detention conditions, including allegations of physical assault and retaliatory measures taken against Saylí after reporting abuse.

The European Parliament has officially included the case of the Navarros on its agenda. A debate regarding political prisoners in Cuba is scheduled for September 16, with a vote on a resolution expected to follow on September 17.