The Cuban regime unveiled a nine-volume collection of Raúl Castro Ruz's Selected Works this past Friday at the José Martí Memorial in Havana. Notably, the Army General himself was absent, reigniting speculation about his health. The event featured the attendance of the country's leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, along with senior Communist Party officials, who praised the publication as an "extraordinary work" containing numerous previously unreleased documents from the former leader.
At the age of 94, Raúl Castro was conspicuously missing from the ceremony, despite its focus on celebrating his political legacy. The Cuban Presidency took to social media to highlight that the collection "contains many valuable documents, several of them previously unpublished, from the leader of the Cuban Revolution." Official spokespersons, including Enrique Villuendas, lauded the release on X, claiming it to be an "inexhaustible source of teachings."
This absence comes on the heels of a digital campaign titled "Raúl is Raúl," launched by the regime's propaganda machine to dispel rumors of his alleged death, which have circulated on social media since late September. Ministries, state media, and accounts associated with the security apparatus have been disseminating posters and slogans portraying the general as a "steadfast, present, and active" leader. The presentation of the Selected Works serves to reinforce this symbolic strategy, while also aiming to project an image of historical and political continuity.
Moreover, the official secrecy surrounding the health of the regime's historical figures, coupled with the symbolic significance of Raúl Castro as the last representative of the founding generation, fuels the rapid spread of rumors on the island. For many Cubans, his death would signify a pivotal political and social turning point, amidst the regime's need to reaffirm his stature through propaganda campaigns designed to show him as "alive and present."
Key Questions on Raúl Castro's Absence and Health
Why was Raúl Castro absent from the presentation of his Selected Works?
Raúl Castro's absence from the event has sparked speculation about his health, although no official reason was provided. His absence comes amid ongoing rumors about his wellbeing.
What is included in the Selected Works of Raúl Castro?
The collection consists of nine volumes that include numerous previously unreleased documents from Raúl Castro, providing insights into his role in the Cuban Revolution and his political legacy.
What is the significance of the "Raúl is Raúl" campaign?
The "Raúl is Raúl" campaign was launched to counteract rumors of Raúl Castro's death, portraying him as a vital and active leader in order to maintain the regime's image of continuity and stability.