Cuban Protester Yosandri Mulet Dies After Suicide Attempt

Yosandri Mulet Almarales, a 38-year-old political prisoner in Cuba, died after a suicide attempt following his imprisonment for participating in anti-communist protests on July 11, 2021. He was sentenced to ten years in prison for 'sedition' alongside seven others, accused of inciting public demonstrations against the government. His family reported that he had previously attempted suicide in June 2022 while incarcerated. Mulet Almarales was subjected to forced labor during his imprisonment, and his mental health deteriorated significantly. His family had sought parole for him, but their requests were denied by the Cuban prosecutor's office, which deemed him fit for incarceration despite his mental health issues. This lack of support and the oppressive conditions in prison contributed to his despair. On the day of his death, he was returning to prison from a furlough when he jumped from the Calabazar Bridge in Havana. His father was with him but lost sight of him briefly, only to later learn of his tragic decision. Family members indicated that he had been contemplating suicide and had left behind personal belongings, indicating his intent. The case of Mulet Almarales highlights the broader issue of mental health crises among political prisoners in Cuba, where many have expressed suicidal thoughts due to the harsh realities of their imprisonment and the regime's disregard for their human rights. This incident has drawn attention to the urgent need for reform and support for political prisoners in the country.