Raúl Castro's bold move: He orders the Parliament to stand up and raise their fists

The deputies of the Cuban National Assembly experienced a unique moment this Wednesday when Raúl Castro, at the close of the debates of the Fourth Regular Session, instructed them to stand up and raise their fists in a gesture of readiness to tackle the serious problems facing the country.

"With a raised hand, standing tall, and fists clenched to confront problems earnestly, let's go for it," said the nonagenarian in an order that left some taken aback, although the majority—among them Manuel Marrero—had no hesitation in following the directive.

In the video shared by Cuban television, you can even hear some nervous laughter from several of those present.

"The leader of the Cuban Revolution, Raúl Castro, called today for the deputies of the National Assembly of People's Power (Parliament) to address the problems with unity," noted Prensa Latina while describing the absurd scene.

"'With our fists held high, we will tackle the problems together,' declared the Cuban leader while briefly intervening in the fourth ordinary session of Parliament, after listening to discussions on key issues," the state media added.

The Fourth Ordinary Period of Parliamentary Sessions, during its Tenth Legislature, will convene until December 20, following two days of discussions in permanent committees that have once again highlighted the critical situation the country is facing.

This isn't the first time Raúl Castro has staged a rather "quirky" scene, showcasing his command and authority in the midst of the Assembly.

Last year, he interrupted the National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP) with shouts demanding "a round of applause" for the Minister of Industry, Eloy Álvarez Martínez.

After Álvarez Martínez read the accountability report of the Ministry of Industries (MINDUS) to the deputies of the X Legislature, the former leader interrupted the president of the ANPP, Esteban Lazo.

“Lazo, Lazo,” he said.

Later, he stood up and asserted that the MINDUS "has contributed greatly to the Armed Forces (FAR), and we also had to give him a few knocks, even this minister; he deserves a round of applause from this Assembly," the elder declared, without explaining the reason for his enthusiasm.

"And stand up!" he commanded next, after which the deputies rose from their seats and applauded loudly for Álvarez Martínez.

Raúl Castro's public appearances on the rise

At 93 years old, Raúl Castro has significantly increased his public appearances in recent months, especially following rumors in September suggesting that he had died or was in serious condition.

This resurgence in their public activity seems to convey a message of continuity and control amidst an uncertain landscape in Cuba.

Recently, the youngest of the Castros also presided over a posthumous tribute to Commander Julio Camacho Aguilera, alongside Miguel Díaz-Canel, at an event that highlighted his ongoing prominence in high-profile military and political ceremonies.

In the social sphere, he presented official recognitions and visited a special school, attempting to project a more approachable image to the public and to vulnerable communities.

On the diplomatic front, he hosted a foreign military delegation alongside Díaz-Canel, emphasizing that he maintains his influence over the country's international relations.

This resurgence of activities began to become visible in September, when he reappeared at the funeral of General Espinosa Martín, and later in October, when he welcomed a senior Russian official.

Since then, her presence at public events has become more frequent, marking a noticeable shift from her previous sporadic and reserved role.

Frequently Asked Questions about the National Assembly of Cuba and Raúl Castro's Role