Activists and families plan new vigil for political prisoners at El Rodeo I

Activists and relatives of political prisoners are set to hold a new vigil outside the El Rodeo I detention center, demanding protection for the inmates. The Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners (Clippve) issued an urgent call for citizens, civil groups, and media to gather peacefully, citing concerns over potential internal repression.

The organizers aim to draw attention to the dire health conditions faced by those detained for political reasons. The nighttime event is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at 6:00 p.m. in the family camp area directly in front of the prison gates. This peaceful demonstration serves as a denunciation of irregularities reported in recent days.

Families who have maintained a continuous presence outside the prison for six months reported undue pressure from authorities following the previous Saturday's visiting hours. Relatives allege threats of violence were used to force detainees back into cells whose safety has not been verified and lack emergency protocols or independent oversight. They also warned of several prisoners being isolated as punishment for expressing dissent and of a diarrheal outbreak affecting the inmate population without adequate medical attention.

Human rights advocates criticized the prison administrators' response, stating that complaints are dismissed. Committee representatives explained that while authorities deny mistreatment and re-victimize families, the vigil is intended as an act of collective support and protection. Attendees are encouraged to bring candles or flashlights as symbols of hope, protection, and resistance for the inmates.

“

Today we gather again. We call on family members, citizens, organizations, and the media to a special vigil due to the risk of a new violent attack, reprisals against those...