Havana: For nearly five decades President Fidel Castro has been at the helm of Cuban politics. But now, in a surprising message, the Cuban leader says it may finally be time to let the younger generation take over.
Before starting his daily talk-show, one of Cuba's best-known anchors Randy Alonso, read a letter just received from the 81-year-old Castro.
Castro had said in the letter, “My basic duty is not to cling to office much less to obstruct the rise of younger people, but to pass on experiences and ideas whose modest value arises from the exceptional era in which I lived."
The message was repeated throughout the night and reprinted in newspapers on Tuesday.
However, many Cubans seem unfazed, 17 months after Castro temporarily handed power over to his younger brother Raul to undergo emergency surgery.
Castro hasn't made a public appearance since then, although he has appeared in dozens of videos and photos. He has also penned more than 60 essays on international topics like bio-fuels and the war in Iraq.
This is the first time Castro has specifically mentioned his political future.
Cubans are divided on the topic: many say they haven't read it, while others feel Castro was sending a message that he sees the time for retirement coming and so, he's giving an opportunity to younger people.
However, even that reference has caused some confusion, as that Raul Castro is only five years younger than Fidel.
The letter comes ahead of parliamentary elections in January, after which deputies will elect the new President of the Council of State – a position held by Castro since it was created in 1976.
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