Bush Calls For Democracy In Cuba

President Bush issued a rather blunt call to the Cuban people to begin transitioning to a democratic society.

''The United States is actively monitoring the situation in Cuba following the announcement of a transfer of power,'' Bush said in a statement. “At this time of uncertainty in Cuba, one thing is clear: The United States is absolutely committed to supporting the Cuban people's aspirations for democracy and freedom.''

Castro has temporarily handed power to his brother Raúl, the first such handoff since the communist government was established 47 years ago. The streets in Havana have been calm since the announcement was made Monday evening.

''I encourage all democratic nations to unite in support of the right of the Cuban people to define a democratic future for their country,'' Bush added. “I urge the Cuban people to work for democratic change on the island.''

Bush, reiterating statements made by the administration in the past, said the United States will “take note of those, in the current Cuban regime, who obstruct your desire for a free Cuba.''

The United States was ready to provide humanitarian assistance to the Cuban people.

''It has long been the hope of the United States to have a free, independent and democratic Cuba as a close friend and neighbor. In achieving this, the Cuban people can count on the full and unconditional support of the United States,'' the president said.

Meanwhile, no sign from either Fidel or Hugo Castro and the communist party is saying it fully intends to stay in power. I suspect we are seeing a power struggle over the remains of Castro at this point.

The Communist Party made plain on Thursday it intended to remain in control no matter what happened to Fidel Castro.

There was still no public appearance by his designated successor, Raul Castro, 75.

But in a typically cryptic message analysts said was designed to dispel fears of a disorderly transition of power, the main Communist newspaper Granma printed part of an old speech by Raul Castro.

In the speech, delivered on June 14 to army officers and first printed in Granma the following day, Raul Castro said, "Only the Communist Party …. can be the worthy heir of the trust Cubans have placed in their leader."

Some analysts said this was meant to signal that Raul will lead a more consensual style of government, with perhaps more power for the party Politburo, than Fidel, a notorious workaholic with a reputation for always getting his own way.

I rather wonder if Raul outlived his brother by very long at this point.

UPDATE: Fausta has quite a roundup.