The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America-People’s Trade Agreement (ALBA-TCP) paid tribute to Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, as he concluded his work as first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee.

Alliance member countries conveyed their tribute in a communiqué as a «just recognition of a life devoted to the liberation of our peoples, to the struggle for social justice and internationalist solidarity. This life of dedication constitutes an example for future generations.»

The note adds that in the exercise of his responsibilities as President of Cuba’s Councils of State and Ministers, ALBA-TCP benefited from Raúl’s wisdom and efforts to strengthen the Alliance.

«We are convinced that he will continue to be a beacon, guiding our steps on the road to the construction of a more just and humane society. And that, as in his own words, he will always have «a foot in the stirrup, ready to defend the homeland, the Revolution and socialism,» the communiqué concluded.

A Mambí “ready, with a foot in the stirrup, to defend the homeland”

Author: Santiago Romero Chang  
Published Date: 17 abril 2021

A Mambí “ready- «Let no one doubt that as long as I live, I will be ready, with a foot in the stirrup to defend the homeland, the Revolution and socialism,» stated Army General Raul Castro Ruz, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee, who, like another Mambi or guerrilla, always ready with his horse saddled and a rifle under his pillow, reported that his task leading the political organization had reached its conclusion.

A Mambí “ready- «Let no one doubt that as long as I live, I will be ready, with a foot in the stirrup to defend the homeland, the Revolution and socialism,» stated Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee, who, like another Mambi or guerrilla, always ready with his horse saddled and a rifle under his pillow, reported that his task leading the political organization had reached its conclusion.

Debate and work in 8th Party Congress commissions continues

Ending his presentation of the 8th Party Congress Central Report, on the gathering’s opening day, Raúl expressed the satisfaction of having fulfilled his duty, and conveyed his confidence in the future of the homeland, but emphasized his unchanging commitment to participate as a member of the party ranks: «I will continue serving as one more revolutionary fighter, ready to make my modest contribution until the end of my life,» he insisted.

The moving historic moment sealed the reading of a Central Report which, in a clear and objective manner, reviewed what had been done over the last five years, with respect to each of the country’s strategic issues.

The first session of the Congress, which will continue through April 19, was also attended by Political Bureau members Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, President of the Republic; José Ramón Machado Ventura, second secretary; and Esteban Lazo Hernández, President of the National Assembly and Council of State; as well as other Party and government leaders.