Nelson Statement on Death of Oswaldo Paya

Monday, July 23, 2012
Statement by U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) on the Death of Oswaldo Payá

Sen. Nelson was shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Oswaldo Payá.  Payá's Varela Project was a symbol for civil and human rights in Cuba, including free and fair elections.  He led this petition initiative at great risk to himself and for his work he received the European Parliament's Sakarov Prive for Freedom of Thought in 2002 and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.  His fight for freedom and democracy won't be forgotten.  And Sen. Nelson will continue to support the cause of freedom for the Cuban people.