Cuban Opposition Leader Félix Navarro Beaten and Isolated in Matanzas Prison

Political prisoner Félix Navarro, 72, was reportedly beaten and dragged 100 meters by prison guards in Matanzas, according to testimony from his daughter.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 6:13 AM EDT

Source: Cubanet

Allegations of Physical Abuse in Agüica Prison

New details emerged this week regarding the treatment of Félix Navarro Rodríguez, a veteran activist and leader of the Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy. His daughter, Sayli Navarro Álvarez—who is also serving a sentence as a political prisoner—recounted the incident following a rare visit to the Agüica facility. She reported that her father was violently dragged while handcuffed with his hands behind his back for a distance exceeding 100 meters. The altercation allegedly began during a strip search prior to a family visit, a process described as intentionally humiliating by the family.

Identification of the Alleged Aggressor

The reports identify Yoslen Pedroso Sotolongo, the head of Internal Order at the Agüica prison, as the primary aggressor in the incident. According to the testimony, the officer engaged in a verbal argument with Navarro during the search. Following the dispute, the officer allegedly forced Navarro out of the area while he was partially undressed and missing his glasses. Witnesses claim Navarro was kicked in the right foot and struck in the face; his daughter later observed a tear on his right cheek and a handprint on his face, which she suggested was an attempt by the officer to forcibly silence him.

Medical Condition and Solitary Confinement

Following the physical struggle, Navarro was reportedly locked in a punishment cell in an area known as "El Vivac" for approximately two hours. The psychological and physical stress of the encounter had immediate health consequences for the 72-year-old prisoner. His daughter noted that his blood pressure spiked to 160/80 following the beating, and he sustained visible injuries to his wrists from the excessive pressure of the handcuffs. Human rights advocates have expressed grave concern over his lack of consistent medical attention, given his age and history of health issues.