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End of revolution?

FIDEL Castro has hinted at not returning to presidency following next year's elections in Cuba thereby raising expectations that the country might be entering into a new phase of political or economic reforms.

In a letter read out on the state television recently, the ailing Cuban leader, who has been the head of state since 1959, expressed his desire to pave the way for a new generation of younger leaders. After temporarily handing over the reins to his younger brother, Raul, last year, the revolutionary leader has hardly made any public appearance. This triggered widespread speculations about his failing health following complicated surgeries. In fact, President Bush in October this year made a spirited attempt to rouse people to help Cubans "depose" Castro and usher in long-awaited reforms in the country. But Castro occasionally did make public appearances to scotch rumours about the end of his rule.

The US sanctions against Cuba, a country that mainly thrives on tourism and foreign aid from countries like Venezuela and China, have been in place for over 40 years. Though Castro hasn't made it clear whether he would completely retire from political life, speculations are rife that in a post-Castro dispensation there could be a thaw in relations with the US. It is expected that the country might ease restrictions on foreign investment. Raul Castro has, in fact, promised to raise the standard of living of ordinary Cubans. It therefore remains to be seen how future leaders of the country will redefine the Cuban brand of socialism.

But, if Fidel Castro, a legend in his lifetime who has outlasted nine US presidents, doesn't "cling to office" next year, it will certainly mark the end — in his own words — of an "exceptional era" in which he lived