After four years in seclusion, revolutionary Cuban leader Fidel Castro made his first public appearance, when he visited a scientific facility in the Cuban capital Havana. This is the first time he has appeared for any public function, after provisionally ceding power to brother Raul Castro.
A state-run website www.cubadebate.cu showed photographs of a smiling Castro, taken by his son Alex. . Castro, who is 83, looked quite hale and hearty in the photographs. He also talked to directors of the National Centre of Scientific Investigations during the visit.
The charismatic Cuban leader had undergone intestinal surgery in 2006, and since then had featured only in rare photographs. It was only last year that close ally of Castro and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez had confirmed that Castro was taking occasional walks beside his Havana residence.
Castro, who came to power after a revolution threw out a US backed dictator in 1959, ruled Cuba for around 49 years, before resigning on health grounds and handing over power to brother Raul.
Castro, in the last few days has been repeatedly expressing concerns about a nuclear war, citing the ever-increasing tensions between the US and Iran. His appearance meanwhile puts an end to all speculations expressed regarding his wellbeing.
Popularity: 1% [?]
