Castro "no show" for Cuba Mayday

international | miscellaneous | other press Tuesday May 01, 2007 15:32 by I didn't start this rumour ok! nor ping propaganda

Rumours have been rife these last few days that Fidel Castro would make his first appearance since his autistic younger brother Raul took over the reins of power temporarily last 31 july. However, as the Cuban Mayday began to move a few hours ago - neither of the Castro brothers were to be seen.

Instead Salvador Valdés, secretary general of the Central Workers' union of Cuba led the march which Fidel has now missed twice. Raul Castro has never appeared in his official capacity nor been named as such in any broadcast by Havana.

Hugo Chavez and Gabriel Garcia Marquez are the two highest profile individuals who have enjoyed conversations with Castro (their friend) and relayed information of the ailing dictator and left wing icon to the general public.

Mayday is an anarchist celebration which globally brings millions to the street in the days leading up to after the 1st of May.

Cuba has in the last weeks signed important deals with its Allies Venezuela, China and former colonial power the EU Spain. The latter expressed confidence in a "transition process" which would see the many hundreds of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience finally released by the regime. The abuse of human rights on the island has long tarnished the reputation of the regime & unfortuanately detracted from the achievements of the revolution.

However, the abuses of the Cuban regime do not cry out for as much attention as those committed by the USA at its Cuban naval base Guantanamo.

Accordingly as Cuba stepped up demands on the USA for release of 5 of its citizens accused of espionage, some political prisoners (each serving less than 5 years) were released in the last weeks.

http://www.unionradio.com.ve/Noticias/Noticia.aspx?noti...01823

http://www.infobae.com/contenidos/314236-100884-0-Fidel...abana

http://www.milenio.com/index.php/2007/05/01/64373/