Recently Castro gave the key to an orthodox priest for a cathedral built by the Cuban government for the limited number of Cuban Christians that lived in Cuba. Many are wondering why Castro would do this.
Now I could have posted this in the religious section, but my purpose in having it here is to discuss the current 'stand' of Cuba from a political perspective. Is Castro turning to religion as a means to 'make a point'? The priest in his gratitude speech did mention the 'evil' of the US in causing so much isolations in Cuba. However...
Is Cuba better off under Castro?
Is Castro just a shameless dictator, or does he really care about Cuba?
I don't believe or support dictators and I think Mr. Castro is one. Therefore I think Cuba doesn't necesarily means will be better without Castro BUT it would be nice if the people in Cuba could choose freely which President they want.
QUOTE |
Is Cuba better off under Castro? Is Castro just a shameless dictator, or does he really care about Cuba? |
In what seems to be a 180 degree turn, Castro has totally eradicated the exchange for US dollars in his country with a further 10% levy on those still wanting to exchange dollars. In this action he hopes that it would fight against sanctions the US has put over Cuba. Do you think this was being 'childish' or the best move for his country?
Well, I think this is going to hurt the poor of his country who are receiving financial aid in terms of US dollars from their relatives in the States. However, he probably should have done this long ago from a purely political view. It seems to me, by allowing his people to rely on US dollars, he is, in effect, admitting that his system of government on its own doesn't work. In addition, this seems to serve the purpose of making people dream more of the "riches to be found in the US." This would make them more likely to attempt to leave Cuba for the US.
QUOTE |
Do you think this was being 'childish' or the best move for his country? |
Is Cuba better off? Well I believe that prior to Cuba going Communist, it was one of the top overseas destination for Americans (Cuba and Lebanon). Could Cuba have had a rich life as a tourist destination? With the beaches and potential industries on the island, it quite possibly could have done very well.
Castro is truly a dictator. The fortunate thing for Cubans is that he appears to be winding down his existence with us on this planet. People seem to get religion much easier towards the end of their life. I dont think his embrace of religion is a 180 more than fear of what comes next for him.
Interestingly enough, he doesnt seem to have a strong successor in the wings. THis could be good or bad. People I have met from Cuba are anxious for a change to Democracy, but are waiting for Castro to pass. The only thing that might stop this would be a military take-over of the government, should Castro pass away.
Vincenzo