In a staunch defense of his leadership, Miguel Díaz-Canel dismissed the notion that his departure might be part of negotiations with the United States, asserting that such a decision rests solely with the National Assembly of People's Power.
His comments, made during an interview with the Mexican newspaper La Jornada, come amid mounting pressure from Washington to enforce political changes on the island.
"Whether I continue, or not, or anyone else holding a position of this level in our country, is a decision for the people and their representatives in the National Assembly of People's Power," he stated.
Political Decisions Not to Be Personalized
In the interview, Díaz-Canel emphasized that political decisions in Cuba should not be individualized, advocating for the collective nature of the system. "In Cuba, processes like these cannot be personalized," he argued, while also condemning what he deemed to be media smear campaigns against him.
Commitment to Communist Party Rule
The leader also ruled out any changes to the country's political model, reiterating that the Communist Party will remain the backbone of the system. He explained that the ongoing economic reforms aim to blend centralized planning with market mechanisms, drawing partial inspiration from the Chinese and Vietnamese models, yet tailored to Cuban conditions.
These remarks come amidst a severe economic crisis, characterized by prolonged blackouts, fuel shortages, inflation, and a rapidly declining standard of living that is pushing thousands of families into poverty.
Blaming U.S. Sanctions
In this context, Díaz-Canel once again attributed the worsening situation to U.S. sanctions, without acknowledging the impact of decades of poor internal economic management. "It's been nearly four months since we've received a drop of fuel," he said, highlighting its effect on transportation, production, and food distribution.
He also noted the potential for increased participation of Cuban expatriates in the national economy, albeit within a regulatory framework controlled by the state.
On the political front, Díaz-Canel reiterated that any dialogue with Washington must be based on mutual respect, confirming that conversations are ongoing but describing the process as "very sensitive."
He asserted that "the most failed act of U.S. governments in these 67 years of revolution is their inability to take over Cuba," adding that this failure "angers" Washington.
Meanwhile, from the U.S. side, the Trump administration has reiterated that Cuba's system of governance needs to change.
The statements reflect the regime's stance: maintaining political control while attempting limited economic adjustments, amidst growing international pressure, internal crisis, and no real signs of political openness.
Understanding Díaz-Canel's Stance on Power and U.S. Relations
What is Díaz-Canel's position on political negotiations with the U.S.?
Díaz-Canel insists that his continuation in power is a decision for the Cuban people and their representatives, not part of negotiations with the United States.
How does Díaz-Canel view Cuba's political system?
He supports the collective nature of the system and insists that the Communist Party will remain central to Cuba's political framework.
What economic changes are being implemented in Cuba?
Cuba is pursuing economic reforms that combine centralized planning with market mechanisms, inspired by models from China and Vietnam, but adapted to Cuban conditions.