Castro dons uniform in high-profile speech

September 04, 2010|Associated Press

HAVANA — Fidel Castro dusted off his full military uniform for the first time since stepping down as president four years ago, a symbolic act in a communist country where little signals often carry enormous significance.

The revolutionary leader wore the olive-green cap and uniform — minus the star and laurels he held as commander in chief — at a speech early yesterday to students at the University of Havana. The clothing choice was sure to revive speculation the 84-year-old is seeking a larger role in Cuban politics four years after turning power over to his younger brother, Raul.

Castro repeated his warning that the world stands on the brink of a nuclear conflagration because of tension pitting the United States and Israel against Iran. He has returned to the message almost daily since emerging from seclusion in July.

But yesterday’s 35-minute speech to thousands of students assembled at the majestic stairway leading to the historic university was by far Castro’s most significant. Castro has mostly spoken in closed sessions to small groups, and his appearances were usually not announced ahead of time.

Castro began his political career as a student activist at the same university 60 years ago.