Does Castro's Resignation Really Mean Change?

Yesterday the media was flooded with news of Fidel Castro's resignation -- talk about change. Castro has ruled for 49 years -- he is the world's longest serving head of state (excluding monarchies), including monarchies, he's third, after Britain's Queen Elizabeth and the King of Thailand.

If ever there was a time for change in Cuba, it's now. Most Cubans have known no other leader or system -- in fact, more than 70 percent of the population was born after the revolution. Even if someone in Castro's inner circle gains power, it's unlikely anyone will rule for that long again.

As someone who has not been known for his openness to change, this resignation hopefully, marks his willingness to allow change and let the next generation assume power. Though some worry that this will not be much of a change if his brother Raúl (who took over after Fidel grew ill) is appointed president, I would venture to guess that the next commander-in-chief of Cuba will have to do things differently to make an impact.

Castro himself, after taking over the government of Cuba, was quoted saying, "A revolution is not a bed of roses. A revolution is a struggle between the future and the past." The same is true for change now in Cuba -- a struggle between what has been, what the people have known, and what could and might be for this beautiful country.

My hope is that the people of Cuba will see this as a time to change. A time to allow the country to become a part of the global economy -- something Castro was unable to do. There is change in the air and it's Cuba's time to make a change. We've been waiting for them.

Comments

[Goncalo]

Dear Ariane

Congratulations and thanks a lot. I liked your article very much.

I do share with you your point of view.

Yesterday I wrote on my blog (www.no-nest.blogspot.com) that this new behaviour of Fidel (something new in Fidel....UAU!!!) is like the relationship between some CEOs and Chairman in the business. Although the CEOs seem to take the decisions, the Chairman must be always behind...

Nevertheless, such as you, I hope this resignation represents the beginning of the back-to-democraxy era in Cuba.

Congratulations for your post!!!! Loved it!

Take care.....

[toronto]

It seems me that you have enough to do just trying to restore democracy and decency to your own country. Leave Cuba to determine its own course.
The seeds of reform have already been planted and the best thing for the US to do is to stay the hell out of the way. After all, the history of your government's activities in Latin America has usually been abysmal.

[avicenna]

I guess Canadians think alike... I was just thinking it odd that someone from the US - with a disasterous (both comparatively and relatively speaking) administration in power are concerned with Cuba's business. I can't say that Castro has inflicted as much injustice or devastation in all his years of ruling then the Bush administration have managed in 8 years. That is quite a record for Americans - who still sit without a national health care program and are sitting on the brink of economic ruin. Cuba has managed to remain remarkably self-sufficient despite the trade embargo and has established sustainable agricultural practices. When the US gets there - then they can ponder about the change going on in other people's backyard.