According to Sahara Reporters, Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has called on the United States government to remove Cuba from its list of states allegedly sponsoring terrorism. In a release on Thursday, Falana highlighted the need for the US to align with the resolutions of the United Nations General Assembly. These resolutions, passed annually since 1992, demand that the US ends its blockade against Cuba and lifts the economic and trade embargo imposed on the country since February 1962.
Falana emphasized that the US should also evacuate its military and other personnel from the Cuban Guantanamo Bay, which it has occupied since 1903. He argued that continued occupation of this territory is unjust and goes against international norms and the sovereignty of Cuba. The lawyer’s statement underscores the broader call for the US to reconsider its stance and policies towards Cuba, reflecting a long-standing tension between the two nations.
The lawyer expressed dismay at the US decision to list Cuba as a state sponsoring terrorism for the fifth consecutive year. He pointed out that Cuba was initially listed in this category in 1982 due to its support for liberation struggles around the world, particularly against apartheid in Namibia and South Africa. Falana's remarks suggest that the US designation of Cuba is rooted in historical geopolitical conflicts and Cuba's international solidarity movements, rather than any contemporary threat posed by the nation.
Falana's demands reflect a growing sentiment among international human rights advocates who believe that the US policy towards Cuba is outdated and unjust. His call for action is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for Cuban sovereignty and the need for adherence to international resolutions and human rights principles. As global attention continues to focus on US-Cuba relations, Falana's statements add a significant voice to the debate, urging a re-evaluation of policies that have long affected the Cuban people.
Falana said, "It is unfortunate that the United States of America, USA has for the fifth time in five years, listed Cuba as one of the states “sponsoring terrorism.” It had initially listed Cuba in that category in 1982 for that country’s principled support for liberation struggles around the world especially against Apartheid in Namibia and South Africa.