The National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba has reformed this Friday, without prior popular consultation, Article 127 of the Constitution of the Republic, removing the requirement to be up to 60 years old to be elected to the position of President of the Republic for the first term.
This decision, approved during the Fifth Ordinary Session of the National Assembly of People's Power, and driven by the "demographic factor of an aging population" that the country is experiencing, allows individuals over the age of 60 "with experience and commitment" to hold such high responsibility.
The constitutional amendment aims to allow individuals older than the previously established age to assume the responsibility of the presidency, if this serves the interests of the regime.
The official note published on the social media of Cubavisión Internacional and replicated on other regime profiles states that the previous regulation, which established a maximum age for presidential election in the first term, was deemed appropriate at the time of the Constitution's approval.
However, in its justification, the Government argues that the current trend of the aging Cuban society has been a "determining" factor in this recent reform.
The constitutional amendment aims to allow individuals to hold the position if they possess "experience, proven results in their work, loyalty and demonstrated history, and a strong commitment to the Homeland," "if it is what is most beneficial for the Revolution at that moment."
The text indicates that the reform process was carried out "respecting the constitutional order." However, no public consultation was conducted to amend an article of such importance in the Constitution.
According to the regime, the Constitution itself establishes a process to be "reformed under certain circumstances."
"We must clarify that this reform does not require ratification through a referendum, as it does not pertain to the reductions, nor to the request for a mandate from the president of the Republic as stated in article 228 of the constitution; it is a proposal of great political significance for the present and future of the nation," argued the president of the ANPP, Esteban Lazo.
The change came after a request from Raúl Castro to evaluate the matter. According to Prensa Latina, Esteban Lazo himself reported that the Council of State had approved the draft constitutional reform law and promoted the initiative to amend Article 127 of the Constitution. Before the proposal was presented this Friday, the Political Bureau of the Communist Party reviewed the matter at Raúl Castro's suggestion.
Until this Friday, Article 127 of the constitution stipulated that in order to be President of Cuba, a person must be at least 35 years old and not older than 60, be in full enjoyment of civil and political rights, be a Cuban citizen by birth, and not hold any other citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Removal of the Age Limit for the Office of President in Cuba
Why was the age limit for being President in Cuba eliminated?
The Cuban regime has removed the age limit for being President, arguing the aging of the population, allowing individuals over 60 years old to assume the position if they have experience and commitment to the Revolution. This measure was taken without public consultation, raising criticisms about the lack of citizen participation in decisions of significant constitutional importance.
What does the removal of the age limit for Cuban politics imply?
The removal of the age limit for the presidency allows leadership to remain in the hands of older figures, which could perpetuate the influence of historical leaders in power. This occurs in a context where population aging and the lack of generational renewal are critical issues, and where the government has been criticized for not introducing significant changes to its political model.
How does this decision affect the international perception of Cuba?
The decision to remove the age limit for the presidency may negatively impact Cuba's image internationally, as it is perceived as a maneuver to maintain political control in the hands of the ruling elite. This action, combined with other restrictive measures, could intensify criticism regarding the lack of democracy and the centralization of power on the island.
What other recent changes has the Cuban regime implemented?
The Cuban regime has recently implemented changes such as strengthening digital censorship, allowing for the closure of websites without prior warning and relaxing requirements for access to higher education. These measures reflect stricter control over information and a response to the country’s economic and social crisis, although they are seen as restrictive and insufficient to address the structural needs of the nation.
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