The nonagenarian Raúl Castro reappeared this Saturday at the July 26th event in Ciego de Ávila.
closely monitored by his grandson El Cangrejo, and flanked by the also nonagenarians Ramiro Valdés and José Ramón Machado Ventura, the elderly man walked in from behind the podium and sat in the front row to preside over the event.
The event commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the assault on the Moncada barracks, once the most important celebration for the regime, began around 5 a.m.
In the central speech, the Prime Minister of the Cuban regime, Manuel Marrero Cruz stated that "national dignity is non-negotiable."
In a country where dissent is repressed and there are nearly 1000 political prisoners, Marrero emphasized that the regime does not give up its goal of having a "just and democratic" nation.
During the speech, filled with the clichés of regime propaganda and lacking anything noteworthy, Marrero Cruz acknowledged the economic crisis that Cubans are enduring, referring to the places visited in Ciego de Ávila, but appealing to the enthusiasm and joy of the work collectives.
The leader appealed to the late dictator's ability to "turn setbacks into victory" in the year the regime will commemorate the centenary of his birth.
He also stated, without explaining how, that in 2026 the regime will focus on prioritizing "the increase of national production, the generation of foreign currency, the recovery of the electric power system, and the strengthening of the socialist state enterprise, in order to address issues that threaten the well-being of the population."
Earlier, there was a cultural gala where Lis Cuesta, wife of the ruler Díaz-Canel, and Yadira Ramírez Morera, partner of Prime Minister Marrero Cruz, were seen smiling and relaxed.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reappearance of Raúl Castro and the Situation in Cuba
Why is Raúl Castro's reappearance at the July 26 event significant?
The reappearance of Raúl Castro at the July 26 event is significant because it symbolizes an attempt by the Cuban regime to reinforce continuity and stability during a time of economic and social crisis. His presence, alongside other historical leaders, aims to legitimize the current government of Miguel Díaz-Canel and convey a message of unity amidst growing internal and external challenges.
What is the current economic situation in Cuba that Manuel Marrero mentioned during the event?
Manuel Marrero, the prime minister of the Cuban regime, admitted during the event that Cuba is facing a severe economic crisis, marked by shortages and a lack of food and medicine. Despite the propaganda rhetoric, Marrero acknowledged the economic challenges and stated that the regime will prioritize increasing national production and recovering the electric power system in 2026.
What criticisms does the Cuban government face regarding its economic and social management?
The Cuban government faces criticism for its inability to resolve the economic crisis and the living conditions of the population. The criticism focuses on the repression of dissent, the scarcity of basic resources, and the apparent propaganda maneuvers, such as the staging of stocked markets only for the visits of high officials, which do not reflect the daily reality of most Cubans.
What role does propaganda play in the perception of the Cuban regime?
Propaganda plays a crucial role in the Cuban regime's strategy to maintain its image of control and stability, despite the critical reality facing the population. Through carefully organized events and speeches from its leaders, the regime attempts to project an image of success and revolutionary continuity, while facing increasing criticism and social discontent due to the economic crisis and lack of freedoms.
Filed under:
