Freedom in Cuba? Not likely
www.minotdailynews.com
Far too much optimism regarding the future of Cuba has been expressed
because of the uncertain state of longtime dictator Fidel Castro's
health. It appears that even if the Comandante agrees to turn over the
reins of power, or dies, hardline communism will remain as a cloud over
Cuba.
It's too bad, because more freedom in the country could be good news for
North Dakota producers, who have in the past sent ****pments of peas,
lentils and other products to Cuba. Perhaps that market would expand if
given the chance.
But so pervasive is the cult of personality — and fear — involving
Castro that no one even dares to suggest change in Cuba. Evidence of
that came recently, when Cubans trooped to the polls for an "election."
Balloting was held to select members of the National Assembly, through
which the country's top leaders, the Council of State, are chosen.
Castro has headed the Council for many years.
Government officials claimed that 95 percent of registered voters went
to the polls. We don't doubt that. Cubans who don't want to get into
trouble make it a point to do what the Communist Party tells them.
They were given no choice. Election ballots contained more than 600
names of "candidates" for the Assembly — but there was only one for each
post to be filled. The nominees had been chosen in advance by party
officials. Voters could only vote for them — or, for those willing to
take chances, not vote at all.
Even if Castro for any reason drops out of power, a veteran cadre of
Community Party leaders will step in to take his place. That leaves
little reason for optimism among Cubans who for decades have longed for
freedom.
Jim Eykyn, Publisher; Bryan L. Obenchain, Editor
http://www.minotdailynews.com/editorials/articles.asp?articleID=18344
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