Cuban President Fidel Castro resurfaced on state television Saturday, ending a 40-day absence from public view. Footage showed the 80-year-old leader reading through weekend editions of two government newspapers, Granma and Juventud Rebelde, while wearing a sports jacket.
Castro, who has governed Cuba since 1959, transferred presidential authority temporarily to his younger brother Raul, 75, on 31 July following gastrointestinal surgery. Speculation about the severity of his condition had grown steadily during his absence, with some suggesting his rule could be nearing its end.
The footage depicted Castro moving without physical assistance and appearing to be in better health than earlier official images had suggested. Addressing doubters directly, he expressed satisfaction at being able to prove wrong those who had declared him near death.
Two regional allies offered their own assessments Saturday. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said Castro was mobile and venturing out at night. Bolivian President Evo Morales told supporters at a rally that Castro would resume full duties within two to three weeks, though he cited no source for that claim.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in October 2006, in its own words.