Many thought the revolutionary leader to be suffering from a fatal illness due to his long spell in secrecy. Since 2006, when serious surgery made the leader of almost half a century bedridden, Raul Castro has taken the duties of President, the first 2 years only Acting before his big brother officially stepped down from the post, causing much speculation that he was in fact soon to die. 

At the age of 86, he protests that he is healthy and fit to continue making appearances in public. Even Elias Jaua, a former Venezuelan Vice President, agrees, having met Castro for a lengthy conference recently.

Jaua says that in their meeting they discussed a number of topics, such as “history, international politics and agriculture“. He claims that Castro was “very well, very lucid” and “Well, Fidel is doing fine“. The last time he was seen by journalists was when Pope Benedict visited the island – still under Communist control – in March. Sources state that all travel was paid for by Castro, as if the meeting was simply to catch up after a long separation. 
 

But what do you think? Is this resurgence of Fidel Castro healthy for his nation, Cuba? Or should he have kept to the shadows in his old age? Tell us your thoughts below, but remember to be logged in!