Thousands in Cuba pay their respects to Castro on day of mourning

Cuba

Throughout Cuba, people are paying their last respects to Fidel Castro, who died on Friday; a man considered one of the most important figures in Latin American history.

Throughout Cuba, people are paying their last respects to Fidel Castro, who died on Friday; a man considered one of the most important figures in Latin American history.

CCTV America’s Franc Contreras reports from Havana.

A national day of mourning – three days after the death of Fidel Castro, tens of thousands of Cubans are in Havana’s Plaza of the Revolution as they prepare to say goodbye to the man who ruled their country for nearly half a century.

According to Cuban President Raul Castro, his brother’s last wish to have his remains cremated. But inside the Jos Marti Memorial Museum, this reporter saw no urn or ash capsule.

Only the Cuban government knows for certain whether Fidel Castro’s ashen remains are actually here at this moment. But to these people it really does not matter. They are here to pay homage to a man they consider their leader and more.

On the island nation, there are those who have long opposed Castro and his policies. On this day, life goes on even as the streets of the Cuban capital are unusually quiet. The prevailing sentiment is heartfelt grief.

Preparations are underway for a massive rally Tuesday night in the Plaza of the Revolution. More than one hundred thousand people are expected to turn out.


Vikki Huddleston on Fidel Catro’s death

What has been the legacy and significance of Fidel Castro following his death at 90, especially with his international impact? For more on this question, CCTV America’s Asieh Namdar spoke with Vikki Huddleston, deputy assistant secretary for Africa in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.