Homeless and rejected by his family, Cuba ex-political prisoner is ready to fight for freedom

Jorge Alberto Liriano Linares

Former Cuban political prisoner Jorge Alberto Liriano Linares is out of jail, but he is far from free. In fact, he remains a prisoner on the Cuban street, with no identity card, with no family, with no home.

And over his head, the very real possibility that the dictatorship will throw him back in prison — or worse.

Liriano's commitment to a free Cuba, however, remains undaunted.

"I burn with a desire to establish and incorporate a civic activity on the streets, to continue the fight for truth, freedom, democracy and the human rights of my people. I dream of continuing the rebellious activity," Liriano wrote in an essay for the CIHPRESS news agency, whose director Roberto Guerra has provided Liriano with a place to stay.

Liriano was released March 25, 11 years and 39 days after he was imprisoned. In the essay, Liriano does not explain why he was imprisoned but in jail he showed his mettle by reporting on the various abuses of other prisoners that he witnessed.

Despite the many challenges he faces now — his family has turned its back on him for "ideological reasons" — Liriano has not given up on his principles.

"I am willing, ready and prepared to carry on the fight," he said.