Cubans astonished by Castro no-show

Cubans astonished by Castro no-show
Monday, December 4, 2006
by Rosa Tania Valdes and Nelson Acosta

HAVANA, Cuba (Reuters): Cubans were astonished by ailing Fidel Castro's
absence from his birthday parade on Saturday, but many believe the only
leader they have known for 47 years will survive his health crisis and
return to public life.
Cuban special forces carrying assault rifles
equipped with scopes and silencers take part in a
military parade at Revolution Square celebrating
the 50th Anniversary of the Cuban Army and the
80th birthday of President Fidel Castro. AFP PHOTO

Whether they like his communist government or not, Cubans find it hard
to get used to the idea the bearded revolutionary might no longer be
around. Few thought he would fail to turn up on Saturday in his
trademark green uniform.

"He did not show up, but he will show up," said a retired army general,
as he walked away from Havana's Revolution Square after the biggest show
of military muscle in two decades.

"Everybody wanted to see him, but it is best that he look after himself
so we can have him back," said the general, who asked not to be quoted
by name.

The Cuban military rolled out their Soviet-era tanks and fighter jets
for the parade celebrating the start of Castro's revolution 50 years ago
and Castro's 80th birthday. The event was led by brother, Raul Castro,
acting president since emergency surgery forced Fidel Castro to cede
power in late July.

"His absence is a sure sign that his health is in very bad shape," said
Martinez, a university professor who declined to give his full name as
he marched through the square in a civilian contingent of 300,000 people.

Seven out of 10 Cubans were born after Castro seized power in 1959. His
long speeches and anti-American tirades have been a constant in their lives.

"I was convinced he would be there, because he seems to be omnipresent,"
said Veronica, a housewife who lives in an overcrowded and dilapidated
district of central Havana. She also asked not to use her full name.

She is sure Castro, a master of surprise since his days as a guerrilla
fighter, will reappear like a magician to dash the hopes of his exiled
opponents in the United States.

"He was silent for a time and the people in Miami thought he was dead.
Now there is another strategic silence, but he will appear again to
shock them," she said.

"If he does not, it will be because he is dead or very badly ill," she said.

Castro's condition is a state secret known only to his closest aides.
Cubans, used to being told little about the inner workings of their
government, do not know where Castro is convalescing, let along what
illness he has.

Dissidents who hope his departure will lead to democratic changes in
Cuba's one-party state say the country is wondering what is going on.

"Something is very wrong with him. The government set this date for his
reappearance. They will have to give Cubans an explanation now, because
people want to know," said dissident Manuel Cuesta Morua.

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