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The Cuban regime presented on Friday at the José Martí Memorial in Havana a collection of nine volumes of the Selected Works of Raúl Castro Ruz, without the presence of the Army General himself, a fact that has once again fueled rumors about his health condition.
In the event, the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and high-ranking officials from the Communist Party participated, who described the publication as an "extraordinary work" that includes numerous unpublished documents from the former president.
However, Raúl Castro, 94 years old, did not attend the ceremony, despite it being an event that celebrates his political figure.
The Presidency of Cuba highlighted on social media that the collection "contains many valuable documents, several of them unpublished, from the leader of the Cuban Revolution," while official spokespersons like Enrique Villuendas celebrated the launch on X, stating that it is an "inexhaustible source of teachings."
The absence of the former leader occurs just a few days after the propaganda apparatus launched the digital campaign "Raúl is Raúl", designed to counter rumors about his alleged death, which have been circulating on social media since late September.
Ministries, state media, and accounts linked to the security apparatus reproduced posters and slogans depicting the general as a leader who is “steadfast, present, and in combat.”
The presentation of the Selected Works reinforces this symbolic strategy while aiming to project an image of historical and political continuity.
On the other hand, the official secrecy surrounding the health of the historic leaders of the regime, coupled with the symbolic significance of Raúl Castro as the last representative of the founding generation, explains the rapid spread of rumors on the island.
For many Cubans, his death would mark a political and social turning point, amidst the regime's need to reaffirm his image through propaganda campaigns that attempt to portray him as “standing and present.”
Frequently asked questions about Raúl Castro's absence from the presentation of his Selected Works
Why didn't Raúl Castro attend the presentation of his Selected Works?
Raúl Castro, 94 years old, did not attend the ceremony for the presentation of his Selected Works, which has sparked rumors about his health condition. Although no official reason has been provided, his absence from an event that honors his political legacy is striking and contributes to the secrecy surrounding the health of the historical leaders of the Cuban regime.
What does the collection of Selected Works of Raúl Castro contain?
The collection presented at the José Martí Memorial consists of nine volumes with numerous documents, several of which are unpublished, from Army General Raúl Castro Ruz. The Cuban regime has described this publication as an "extraordinary work" that aims to strengthen the political figure of the former leader and project historical and political continuity.
What significance does Raúl Castro hold for the Cuban regime?
Raúl Castro is considered the last representative of the founding generation of the Cuban Revolution. Despite his formal retirement, his figure continues to be used as a symbol of continuity and legitimacy for the regime. His presence at public events often serves as a symbolic endorsement for the current leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and helps maintain the image of unity and strength of the Communist Party.
What strategies does the Cuban regime use to counter rumors about Raúl Castro's health?
The Cuban regime has launched digital campaigns such as “Raúl is Raúl” to counter rumors regarding the alleged death of Raúl Castro. These campaigns aim to portray him as “standing and present” through slogans and posters on social media, reinforcing his image as a steadfast and combative leader, despite the secrecy surrounding his health status.
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