General Raúl Castro Ruz made a public appearance on Friday during the final session of the sixth ordinary period of the National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP), held amid a backdrop of Cuba's ongoing economic and social turmoil.
The Cuban Presidency took to social media platform X to announce Castro's participation, referring to him as the "leader at the helm of the Cuban Revolution." His presence at the concluding session of Parliament was a clear indication that real power remains firmly in his grasp.
In another statement, the Presidency noted the elderly military figure arrived at the assembly alongside current leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, receiving applause from the legislators after having monitored the day's debates closely.
This scenario underscores Castro's enduring symbolic and political influence, despite his formal withdrawal from leadership roles in 2021. Official outlet Cubadebate also highlighted his involvement via video conference in the Assembly's initial session.
The media reiterated the "leader at the helm of the Revolution" title, a term increasingly used in recent months, emphasizing Castro's continued significant influence within Cuba's power structure.
During the parliamentary session, Díaz-Canel announced notable changes within the country's institutional framework. He stated that as part of a "natural renewal" process, the Council of State proposed the removal of Rubén Remigio Ferro as President of the Supreme People's Court, appointing the current Minister of Justice, Oscar Silvera Martínez, in his place.
Additionally, National Assembly President Esteban Lazo reported the resignations of several deputies, including Homero Acosta Ávila, Secretary of the ANPP and the Council of State; Ulises Guilarte de Nacimiento, former General Secretary of the Central Union of Cuban Workers; and Ricardo Rodríguez González, ex-President of the Federation of University Students.
Raúl Castro's reappearance at the Assembly is not an isolated event but part of a series of recent developments affirming his prominent role in the country's strategic decision-making.
Last week, it was revealed that Castro ordered the postponement of the 9th Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba, originally set for April 2026, due to the island's economic and social collapse. The decision was announced by Díaz-Canel during the 11th Plenum of the PCC Central Committee, as he read a letter penned by Castro.
In the letter, the general stated that delaying the Congress should not be seen as a setback but as a necessary step to focus the Party, Government, and State's resources, efforts, and energy on addressing the nation's current issues.
In October, Raúl Castro, at 94, also presided over a session of the National Defense Council at the Ministry of the Armed Forces, again officially presented as "leader at the helm of the Revolution." He was flanked by his grandson Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, known as "El Cangrejo," with Díaz-Canel on his right.
This presentation drew particular attention as it diverged from the Cuban Constitution, which states that the National Defense Council should be headed by the President of the Republic. Official newspaper Granma confirmed that Díaz-Canel did not lead the body, directly contradicting the constitutional text and reinforcing perceptions that real control remains with Castro.
Despite his formal retirement from political life, Raúl Castro continues to exert decisive influence over key state structures, particularly in defense and the military-controlled GAESA business conglomerate.
The persistent labeling of Castro as "leader" or "head at the helm of the Revolution," rather than former president or historical leader, solidifies the notion that his power is undiminished.
Amidst a severe economic crisis, extended blackouts, and growing social discontent, Raúl Castro's presence at the core of critical decision-making forums sends a clear message both domestically and internationally: Beyond formal positions and talks of renewal, the political and military control of the country remains under the general's command and the apparatus surrounding him.
Raúl Castro's Influence on Cuban Politics
Why did Raúl Castro appear at the National Assembly session?
Raúl Castro attended the final session of the National Assembly to demonstrate his ongoing influence and symbolic presence in Cuba's political landscape, despite his formal retirement.
What changes did Miguel Díaz-Canel announce during the session?
Miguel Díaz-Canel announced a "natural renewal" process involving the removal of Rubén Remigio Ferro as President of the Supreme People's Court, appointing Oscar Silvera Martínez, the current Minister of Justice, as his successor.
How does Raúl Castro maintain his influence in Cuba?
Raúl Castro maintains his influence through his symbolic presence, strategic decision-making, and control over key sectors like defense and the military-run GAESA conglomerate, despite his formal retirement.