Response and Summary

Article title: Cuba nominates Castro for parliament, keeping alive possibility of remaining president.

Site: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/12/02/news/CB-GEN-Cuba-Castro.php

Summary:

As Fidel Castro's illness and conditions continue to be uncertain to the public the possibility that Castro may remain president stand strong. On December 1, 2008 Castro was nominated for a seat in Cuba's Parliament. Although Castro has yet no assured his acceptance to the nomination. If he is to win the position he may remain in the running to retain the presidency of Cuba's supreme governing body. The nomination has left an open option for Castro to stay as Cuba's president, despite his fragile health. Castro has not been seen in public due to his health conditions. He has only appeared on official videos and pictures. Yet, it is confirmed that he stands well up dated with all local news. Although the vote is not final Cuba holds 8.1 million voters. 95 percent of which are registered. The chances for Castro to win are very high.

Response:

Being so close in winning the position as chief of the Parliament Fidel Castro holds the votes many citizens in Cuba. Ricardo Alarcon, President of the National Assembly, stated Sunday that if Castro "were a deputy, I am sure he will be the best candidate you can have for president of the Council of State." Afterwards Alarcon stated he would raise both hands to vote in favor of Castro as head of the council. It has become sure to the minds of many that if Castro accepts the position he will become elected for position. Fidel Castro currently suffers from health conditions that are known to the public. Yet, all in favor for Castro assure that Castro has the capability of doing a great job in position. Even if he is to not receive the presidency, he may cpntinue to play a key role in the nation's leadership in his current position as Communist Party general secretary. Allowing him to hold a more politically powerful job.

There is no immediate word on whether Castro will accept the nomination. If he is to win parliament seat during national elections that will be held Jan. 20, he may remain in the running to retain the presidency of Cuba's supreme governing body, the Council of State. Castro has been able to earn the support of many over the years.