Freedom in Cuba? Not likely

The Minot Daily News, North Dakota

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 shipments 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