Death and state funeral of Fidel Castro

Death and state funeral of Fidel Castro

Castro in 2003
Death date	25 November 2016 at 22:29 Cuba Time (UTC−05:00)
Funeral date	4 December 2016 (Funeral) 4 December 2016 (Internment)

The former President of Cuba Fidel Castro died of natural causes at 22:29 (CST) in the evening of 25 November 2016. His brother, President Raúl Castro, made an announcement about his death on state television. International reactions followed, especially on Twitter. Most reactions were of praise, with the exception of government officials in France, the U.K. and the U.S.A. Cuban-Americans in Miami, Florida celebrated the occasion.

Background

In April 2016, Fidel Castro told the Communist Party of Cuba: "I'll be 90 years old soon. Soon, I'll be like all the others. The time will come for all of us, but the ideas of the Cuban communists will remain as proof on this planet that if they are worked at with fervour and dignity, they can produce the material and cultural goods that human beings need, and we need to fight without truce to obtain them."

Funeral

Following Fidel Castro's death, his brother Raúl Castro announced: "According to the will expressed by comrade Fidel, his body will be cremated in the early hours" of 26 November 2016.

His body will lie in state for Cubans to pay homage to Castro at the José Martí Memorial in Havana on 28 and 29 November with a rally planned for 19:00 29 November. The next day, his ashes will travel to Santa Ifigenia cemetery in Santiago de Cuba to be interred on 4 December. The route will follow the one that commemorates the result of the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Upon reaching the site, at 7:00 the final ceremonies would begin.

Reactions

Domestic

A Che statue in Santa Clara, Cuba, with his popular phrase ¡Hasta la victoria siempre!

President Raúl Castro announced on national television: "The commander in chief of the Cuban revolution died at 22:29 (CST) this evening." He recalled at the end of his speech: "¡Hasta la victoria siempre!" ("Towards victory, always!")

The Council of State of the Republic of Cuba declared nine days of national mourning from 6:00 on 26 November until 12:00 on 4 December. A statement read: "During the mourning period, all public events and activities will cease, the national flag will fly at half-mast on public buildings and at military facilities and television and radio will broadcast informative, patriotic and historical programmes." This includes the postponement of the grand military parade to mark the 60th anniversary of the landing of the yacht Granma and Armed Forces Day on 2 December in Havana's Plaza de la Revolucion, it was now moved to January 2, 2017.

The embassy in the U.S. made an announcement in writing: "Until forever, Commander! This No. 25, at 10:29 p.m. the Commander in Chief of the Cuban Revolution Fidel Castro Ruz passed away." It also posted an image that read: "Hasta Siempre, Commandante."

International

Supranational

• European Union - President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker issued a statement in which conveyed condolences to Castro's family and the people of Cuba. He pointed out that the death of Castro meant that the world has lost a man who was a hero for many but whose legacy will be judged by history. High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini said that Castro was "a man of determination and an historical figure" and that his death came as Cuba faced "great changes and at times of uncertainty. She added that relations would continue to grow.

States

• Argentina - President Mauricio Macri used Twitter to express his "condolences to the Cuban government." Vice-President Gabriela Michetti expressed her condolences "to the government and all the Cuban people". Foreign minister Susana Malcorra echoed Michetti's expression and further considered that Castro's passing "closes an important chapter of Latin American history". She added that "Fidel's death has a very important impact in the Cuban people, both in those in favor and in those against [him]."

• Former president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner issued a short statement published in social networks: "Fidel and Cuba are definitively entering Big History. Together with his people, [he was] an example of dignity and sovereignity." She added expressions of sympathy for Castro's next of kin, including "Dalia, her partner".

• Bolivia - President Evo Morales said that he was "deeply saddened. Fidel [was] the only man in the world with so many principles and so many values. He made so much history not only for Cuba, but also for the planet. That is socialism. There will never again be a man or comrade like Fidel, who devoted his life, his knowledge and his struggle not only to the Cuban people but to all the people of the world."
• Brazil - President Michel Temer issued a statement that read: "Fidel Castro was a man of convictions. He marked the second half of the 20th century with a firm defense of the ideas he believed in."
  • Former President Lula da Silva published an article on his personal website where he praised Castro as "the greatest of all Latin-Americans" and called him "a friend and a comrade." He added that "for the peoples of our continent and workers from the poorest countries, especially for the men and women of my generation, Fidel was always a voice of struggle and hope." He considered that Castro's "combative and caring spirit encouraged dreams of freedom, sovereignity and equality."
  • Former President Dilma Rousseff defined Castro as "one of the most influential political expressions of the 20th century, [a] visionary who believed in the construction of a fraternal and fair society, without hunger nor exploitation, in a strong and united Latin America." She finished her note with a poem from German playwright and poet Bertolt Brecht.
• Canada - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended his condolences and said of Castro that he was a "legendary revolutionary and orator." He added: "It is with deep sorrow that I learned today of the death of Cuba’s longest serving president. Fidel Castro was a larger than life leader who served his people for almost half a century. […] Mr Castro made significant improvements to the education and healthcare of his island nation. While a controversial figure, both Mr Castro’s supporters and detractors recognise his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people who had a deep and lasting affection for ‘El Comandante’. […] We join the people of Cuba today in mourning the loss of this remarkable leader."
• China - President Xi Jinping issued a statement that read: "The Chinese people have lost a good and true comrade. Comrade Castro will live forever. [Castro was] a great man of our time [and] history and people will remember him." He added that relations between the two states grew because of Castro after diplomatic ties were established in 1960. it further noted that Xi "visited his old friend Fidel Castro" in July 2014.
• Ecuador - President Rafael Correa wrote: "He was a great one. Fidel is dead. Long live Cuba! Long live Latin America!"
• El Salvador - A statement from an unnamed ministry read that the government expresses "eternal gratitude" to Castro and the Cuban people for help "in the most difficult times." Castro’s example will live forever in our struggles and will flower in the noble ideas of new generations."
• France - President François Hollande issued a statement that read: "Fidel Castro was a figure of the 20th century. He incarnated the Cuban revolution, in the hopes that it aroused, then in the disillusionments it provoked. An actor in the Cold War, he was part of an era that ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union. He succeeded in representing for Cubans the pride of rejecting external domination." It added that "France, which condemned human rights abuses in Cuba, had equally challenged the US embargo on Cuba, and France was glad to see the two countries re-establish dialogue and open ties between themselves."
  • French Communist Party leader Pierre Laurent said that Castro had "liberated his people in 1959, at a time when the island was in some ways the brothel and the casino of rich Americans. Then he faced American imperialism… He was one of the leaders of the movement of human emancipation in the 20th century. The revolution he led took place at the time of decolonisation and was part of this movement to restore the sovereignty of peoples. That is what will remain in history."
• Holy See - Pope Francis said that reports of Castro's death were "sad news" and that "I express to you my sentiments of grief."
• India - President Pranab Mukherjee wrote on Twitter: "Heartfelt condolences on sad demise of Cuba's revolutionary leader, former President & friend of India, Fidel Castro." Prime Minister Narendra Modi also wrote on Twitter that he extended "deepest condolences to the Government & people of Cuba" and that "[w]e stand in support...in this tragic hour." He further noted that "India mourns the loss of a great friend."
  • Indian National Congress President Sonia Gandhi expressed condolences to the Cuban people and noted Castro's "contribution to the Non Aligned Movement and his unflinching support for India's cause on various fora."
  • Communist Party of India (Marxist) General-Secretary Sitaram Yechury said: "Fidel Castro will remain a legend and a source of inspiration. The world will miss him."
• Ireland - President Michael D. Higgins said of Castro that he had guided Cuba "through a remarkable process of social and political change, advocating a development path that was unique and determinedly independent. Fidel Castro will be remembered as a giant among global leaders whose view was not only one of freedom for his people but for all of the oppressed and excluded peoples on the planet."
  • Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams wrote: "Fuair Fidel bas RIP" ("Fidel has died RIP"). He also posted a picture of him alongside Castro.
• Mexico - President Enrique Peña Nieto said that Castro was a friend of Mexico, who had promoted bilateral relationships based on "respect, dialogue and solidarity. He added: "I lament the passing of Fidel Castro Ruz, leader of the Cuban revolution and emblem of the 20th century."
• Namibia - President Hage Geingob wrote: "The death of #Fidel signals the end of an era. Our comrade is no more but his revolutionary legacy will remain with Namibia forever." He included three pictures of when the two leaders had met at an unknown date.
• Pakistan - Tehreek-e-Insaaf convener Imran Khan wrote on Twitter following the news: "Today the world lost an iconic revolutionary leader Fidel Castro who liberated his nation from all vestiges of imperialism," "Castro reasserted the Cuban nation's dignity & self worth that withstood US aggression & became a global ldr [sic] for anti colonial struggles" and that "[w]e in Pakistan will always remember with gratitude Cuba's support on the ground in the aftermath of the 2005 earthquake."
• Papua New Guinea - Prime Minister Peter O'Neill, who had completed a state visit to Cuba just hours before Fidel Castro's death, said: "Regardless of the politics of the time, such as the Cold War in relation to Cuba, […] when a warrior passes it is time to pay homage to the person who stood by their convictions. The legacy that Fidel Castro leaves for the world is far-reaching. Outside the politics, Fidel Castro pioneered the development of pharmaceuticals and healthcare services in his country and these are being extended around the world. On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I extend our sincere condolences to the Castro family for your loss, the passing of a great man of conviction."
• Russia - President Vladimir Putin praised Castro as a "symbol of an era" and also wrote in a telegram to Raul Castro: "The name of this distinguished statesman is rightly considered the symbol of an era in modern world history. Fidel Castro was a sincere and reliable friend of Russia. [Castro has built a] free and independent Cuba [that] became an influential member of the international community and served as an inspiration for many countries and peoples. [He was ] strong and wise person who always looked to the future with confidence. He embodied the high ideals of a politician, a citizen and a patriot sincerely convinced of the rightness of the cause to which he dedicated his whole life. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of the citizens of Russia." Finally, he noted that Castro had made a "huge personal contribution" to bilateral relations.
  • Communist Party President Gennady Zyuganov expressed his condolences and proclaimed that "Fidel Castro will remain an authority and example for all mankind" and "Russia must continue to help Cuba, which remained true to its friendship with Russia in the most difficult times."
  • Former Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev said: "Fidel stood up and strengthened his country during the harshest American blockade, when there was colossal pressure on him and he still took his country out of this blockade to a path of independent development. In the past years, even when Fidel Castro was not formally in power, his role in strengthening the country was huge. [He should be remembered as a] prominent politician [who left a] deep mark in the history of mankind.
• Slovakia - Prime Minister Robert Fico said: "Cuba has never threaten[ed] anyone, [it] just wanted to live its own life. Many hated it for that courage. I want to express condolences to Cuba in connection with the death of Fidel Castro - the bearer of that courage".
• South Africa - President Jacob Zuma expressed his condolences to the government and people of Cuba and noted that Castro "inspired the Cuban people to join us in our own struggle against apartheid" and "as a way of paying homage to the memory of President Castro, the strong bonds of solidarity, cooperation and friendship that exist between South Africa and Cuba must be maintained and nurtured."
  • The Nelson Mandela Foundation sent condolences to the people and government of Cuba.
• Spain - The Foreign Ministry issued a statement that read: "A figure of great historic importance has gone, a man who brought about a turning point in the country’s evolution and whose great influence was felt across the region. As the son of Spanish parents, former President Castro always maintained strong links with Spain and was bound by ties of blood and culture.
• United Kingdom - Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson wrote: "Fidel #Castro's death marks the end of an era for #Cuba & the start of a new one for Cuba's people." The Foreign Office echoed Johnson's statement and also issued a statement that read: "The UK expresses its condolences to the government and people of Cuba, and to the former president’s family...Fidel Castro’s leadership of the 1959 Cuban Revolution marked him out as an historic if controversial figure. The UK will continue to work with the government of Cuba on a wide range of foreign policy priorities, including on human rights.
  • Leader of the Opposition Jeremy Corbyn called Castro "a massive figure in the history of the whole planet." He also praised Castro’s "heroism" and commended the "social changes" to Cuba. "I think history will show that Castro was such a key figure, it seems he has been with us forever."
  • Northern Ireland - Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness wrote: "End of an Era. #FidelCastro RIP #Sad."
  • Former Trade Minister Brian Wilson said of Castro that he had sent out a "beacon of hope" to Latin America. "He educated his people and he gave them healthcare they had never had before, and you can admire all of that without being an uncritical supporter, believe me, but do not lose the bigger picture - that Fidel Castro, for his region and for oppressed people throughout the world, sent out a message of hope. He recalled to BBC Radio 4' Today of having met Castro on a trade mission: "He proposed a toast to Tony Blair and the third way, I proposed a toast to peace and socialism." Former cabinet minister and leader of the House of Commons Peter Hain said: "Although responsible for indefensible human rights and free speech abuses, Castro created a society of unparalleled access to free health, education and equal opportunity despite an economically throttling U.S.A. siege. His troops inflicted the first defeat on South Africa’s troops in Angola in 1988, a vital turning point in the struggle against apartheid." Former London Mayor Ken Livingstone called Castro an "absolute giant of the 20th century." He also told Today: "I’m sure they will, over time, move towards something like a traditional west European democracy. It could have happened a lot earlier if you hadn’t had, the entire time, a blockade by America, attempts to overthrow the regime, eight assassination attempts authorised by American presidents." He further commented that "even if Trump goes a little bit bonkers...Of course Fidel did things that were wrong...Initially he wasn’t very good on lesbian and gay rights, but the key things that mattered was that people had a good education, good healthcare and wealth was evenly distributed. He was not living as a billionaire laundering money off into a Panamanian bank account or anything like that, he was good for the people.
• United States - The White House issued a statement that read "we extend a hand of friendship to the Cuban people. We know that this moment fills Cubans - in Cuba and in the United States - with powerful emotions, recalling the countless ways in which Fidel Castro altered the course of individual lives, families, and of the Cuban nation. History will record and judge the enormous impact of this singular figure on the people and world around him." It further noted that the "relationship between the United States and Cuba was marked by discord and profound political disagreements. During my presidency, we have worked hard to put the past behind us, pursuing a future in which the relationship between our two countries is defined not by our differences but by the many things that we share as neighbors and friends - bonds of family, culture, commerce, and common humanity. This engagement includes the contributions of Cuban Americans, who have done so much for our country and who care deeply about their loved ones in Cuba."
  • Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said, "While Fidel Castro is gone, sadly the oppression that was the hallmark of his era is not." Meanwhile, half Cuban-American Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) said: "Fidel Castro’s death cannot bring back his thousands of victims, nor can it bring comfort to their families. Today we remember them and honor the brave souls who fought the lonely fight against the brutal Communist dictatorship he imposed on Cuba." Other Cuban-Americans, Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) said history will remember Castro as an "evil, murderous dictator. Fidel Castro seized power promising to bring freedom and prosperity to Cuba, but his communist regime turned it into an impoverished island prison. Over six decades, millions of Cubans were forced to flee their own country, and those accused of opposing the regime were routinely jailed and even killed." He added that he hoped President Barack Obama sends "no one" to the funeral. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) wrote on Twitter: "We must seize the moment and help write a new chapter in the history of #Cuba; that of a Cuba that is free, democratic, and prosperous." Although, she added that with Raúl Castro still in charge, change would be unlikely. She added: "A tyrant is dead." Representative Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) also wrote: "The passing of the dictator marks the end of a long, horrifying chapter in #Cuba's history. The #Cuban people need our solidarity #Castro." Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) said: "Now that Fidel Castro is dead, the cruelty and oppression of his regime should die with him. Today let us reflect on the memory and sacrifices of all those who have suffered under the Castros."
  • Cuban-American Mayor of Miami-Dade County Carlos A. Gimenez wrote that he hoped for a "free and democratic Cuba" and that "His passing closes a very painful chapter for Cubans..."
  • Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich wrote: "Under no circumstance should President Obama or VP Biden or Secstate [sic] Kerry go to Cuba for Castro's funeral. He was a tyrant."
  • President-elect Donald Trump wrote: "Fidel Castro is dead!" He later issued a statement that read:

    Today, the world marks the passing of a brutal dictator who oppressed his own people for nearly six decades. Fidel Castro’s legacy is one of firing squads, theft, unimaginable suffering, poverty and the denial of fundamental human rights.
    While Cuba remains a totalitarian island, it is my hope that today marks a move away from the horrors endured for too long, and toward a future in which the wonderful Cuban people finally live in the freedom they so richly deserve.
    Though the tragedies, deaths and pain caused by Fidel Castro cannot be erased, our administration will do all it can to ensure the Cuban people can finally begin their journey toward prosperity and liberty. I join the many Cuban Americans who supported me so greatly in the presidential campaign, including the Brigade 2506 Veterans Association that endorsed me, with the hope of one day soon seeing a free Cuba.

• Venezuela - President Nicolás Maduro wrote: "To all the revolutionaries of the world, we have to continue his legacy and his flag of independence, of socialism, of homeland." He added: "He made history together with the peoples of the world to signal a way of dignity...Great history with the principles of Bolivar and Martí...Fidel and Chávez constructed el ALBA, PetroCaribe and left the path of liberation of our peoples...the history absolved." He also said: "I just talked with President Raúl Castro to send the solidarity and love to the people of Cuba before the passing of Commander Fidel Castro."

Others

In the early hours of 26 November, the Cuban-American diaspora in Little Havana, Miami, Florida also had celebrations amongst the self-imposed exiles. In San Francisco, California, the diasporic reaction was more mixed.

Former Argentine footballer Diego Maradona said Castro was a "great" man and that, while he was away for the 2016 Davis Cup, "[t]hey called me from Buenos Aires and it was a shock. I’m terribly sad as he was like a second father."

Human Rights Foundation Chairman Garry Kasparov wrote: "Fidel Castro was one of the 20th century's many monsters. We should lament only that he had so long to inflict misery on Cuba and beyond." Amnesty International's Americas Director Erika Guevara-Rosa issued a statement that read Castro was a "progressive but deeply flawed leader." It cited: "Access to public services such as health and education for Cubans were substantially improved by the Cuban revolution and for this, his leadership must be applauded. However, despite these achievements in areas of social policy, Fidel Castro’s 49-year reign was characterised by a ruthless suppression of freedom of expression...Fidel Castro’s legacy is a tale of two worlds. The question now is what human rights will look like in a future Cuba. The lives of many depend on it."

See also

• Che Guevara Mausoleum
• Death and state funeral of Hugo Chávez
• Death and state funeral of Nelson Mandela
• Death and state funeral of Nestor Kirchner
• Lenin's Mausoleum