Castro remains pivotal figure

[Jimmy2]

Isabel Sanchez

Havana - A year after Fidel Castro stepped aside as president, the long-time Cuban leader remains a pivotal figure in the island's politics.

He may have cast aside the trappings of power, but the hand of Cuba's iconic leader can still be seen in the affairs of state - from regular commentaries in local media to his influence over the government of his successor and brother Raul Castro.

Following intestinal surgery in July 2006, the regime's number two and Castro's brother, defence chief Raul Castro became interim president.

Then Fidel handed over the reins permanently in February 2008, ending nearly half a century in power, during which nearly 70% of Cuba's 11 million citizens were born.

Today, he has been transformed from one of the most visible men of the 20th century.

Soldier of ideas

Hidden away in an undisclosed location, the 82-year-old self-declared "soldier of ideas" is recovering from an undefined ailment, reading, exercising and keeping the world guessing about his health and power.

He has not appeared in public since his illness was announced, but intermittent videos and photos have scarcely been enough to keep rumours of his death at bay.

Five weeks silence at the end of 2008 prompted a swirl of chatter about his potential demise that could be heard throughout Latin America and was amplified by Miami's Cuban American community.

But a brief note to mark the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution on January 1 - put an end to those rumours.

Since then he has received a string of leaders beginning with Argentina's Cristina Kirchner on January 21.

At the same time he has vowed to reduce the frequency of his newspaper contributions so as to "not interfere nor hinder" Raul's government.

Since Barack Obama has taken office in the United States, Fidel has launched harsh criticisms of the new president, who he described as "losing his virginity" on Cuba policy.

Symbol of real power

Aside from playing the role of sniper in the newspapers, Fidel is still the first secretary of Cuba's Communist Party which critics say he has used to slow the reformist policies of his brother.

"He is still a symbol of real power" said dissident Elizardo Sanchez.

Another dissident Oscar Espinosa goes further: "He continues to be extremely and demonstrably powerful. He is a historic leader. It is very difficult for Raul to strip away the influence his brother and boss has had his whole life."

For Zora Fernandez, a 66-year-old teacher it is simpler still.

Fidel cannot remove himself from power: "he is part of the Revolution", she said.