An olive green cap personally used by Fidel Castro (1926-2016) was the centerpiece of the inaugural event of the XXXI Fiesta de la Cubanía in Bayamo, Granma province, where the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (Minfar) presented it as a "heritage object" to commemorate the centenary of the late dictator.
The ministry shared on X an image of two young camilitos holding the garment, protected within a glass urn and flanked by uniformed soldiers, which was solemnly transported through Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Park and the Plaza de la Revolución in the city of Bayamo.
According to the official newspaper Granma, the cap accompanied Castro on his tours across Latin America during the 1960s and was chosen to lead this year's tributes.
After the ceremony, the piece will be placed in the birthplace of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, alongside other objects used by the former president and figures of the revolutionary process.
The scene, however, sparked criticism and sarcasm on social media. “The cult of personality fell short with you,” wrote activist Félix Llerena.
Another user recalled that "at one point during the revolutionary process, the cult of personality was criticized and condemned."
Other comments described the event as "a political disease" and "a parody of civil religion."
The Law on the Use of the Name and Likeness of Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, approved by the National Assembly of People's Power in December 2016, aimed to honor Castro's wish to prevent a cult of personality.
The regulation prohibits the use of his name to name public places and the use of his likeness to erect monuments, busts, or any similar type of tribute, with the sole exception of institutions dedicated to the study of his work and thought. Furthermore, it prohibits the use of his name or image for commercial or advertising purposes.
Despite this clear legislation, common practice on the island shows that the law is respected in theory, but not implemented.
This contradiction became evident when the propaganda organs began to create new symbols. A notable example was the delivery, in 2019, when the then newly appointed first secretary of the UJC, Susely Morfa, who is currently the first secretary of the Communist Party in Villa Clara, presented a replica of the cradle of Fidel and Raúl Castro as a "symbol of continuity".
Last August, the Higher Institute of Design (ISDI) sparked controversy with a postcard about Fidel Castro and a story regarding his supposed culinary skills. However, instead of generating admiration, it drew mockery and strong criticism on social media, and was labeled as a “demonstration of servility, flattery, and disrespect towards Cubans.”
The exhibition of the cap is part of the cultural and patriotic activities organized by the regime in anticipation of Castro's centenary in 2026.
Weeks ago, the University of Oriente in Santiago de Cuba launched the 2025-2026 academic year with a program of activities aimed at connecting Castro's thought with current challenges and making it "useful" in the academic and civic education of its students.
Furthermore, the universities of Holguín recently launched the political campaign "Here I become a Fidelista", a new "initiative" of worship, designed to prepare the propaganda machinery leading up to Castro's centenary in 2026.
In the context of the propaganda offensive leading up to the centenary of the Cuban dictator, the regime has solidified an ideological machinery with national reach, aimed at glorifying his figure in all areas of public life.
The program “Fidel Among Us” was designed to be implemented in educational institutions, media outlets, state organizations, and workplaces, through a network of activities that includes contests, tributes, seminars, and indoctrination.
As part of this strategy, a national campaign was launched aiming for all Cubans to “know, defend, and love Fidel,” as stated by official spokespeople.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cult of Personality of Fidel Castro in Cuba
What object was presented as a "heritage object" at the Fiesta de la Cubanía in Bayamo?
An olive green cap belonging to Fidel Castro was presented as a "heritage item" at the XXXI Fiesta de la Cubanía in Bayamo. This event was part of the activities to commemorate the centenary of the late Cuban leader. The cap was solemnly transported in a glass case and will be placed alongside other items in the birthplace of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes.
How has the population reacted to Fidel Castro's cult of personality?
The population has reacted with criticism and sarcasm on social media regarding the cult of personality surrounding Fidel Castro. Many comments describe these actions as a "political disease" and a "parody of civil religion." Despite legislation that prohibits the use of Castro's name and image for tributes, the regime has continued to exalt his figure, generating discontent among the Cuban people.
What contradictions exist in Cuban legislation regarding the veneration of Fidel Castro?
The contradiction lies in the fact that, although there is a law that prohibits the use of Fidel Castro's name and likeness for tributes, in practice, the Cuban regime has continued to promote a cult of his personality. This cult is expressed through campaigns, exhibitions, and tributes, defying the legislation that aims to prevent the cult of personality.
What impact does the cult of Fidel Castro have on Cuban youth?
The cult of Fidel Castro aims to indoctrinate Cuban youth, perpetuating Castro's ideology through educational and cultural activities. Educational institutions and campaigns like "Fidel among us" focus on linking his thoughts with academic and civic education, which has been criticized for its propagandistic nature.
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