When Tyrants Die

When Tyrants Die

What happens when a tyrant like Fidel dies? What happens when absolute power dies? First there is a political vacuum – a condition that cannot exist with mankind at its current level of social advancement. What you do not see is occurring even as I write these words. The top political leadership, civilian and military, are jockeying for position. But this is no regular horserace. In this race you can shoot the jockey behind, next to or in front of you to aide your chances of winning. In the case of Cuba add to this competition hatred and old scores to settle and you have a very chaotic mix.

Another way to enhance your chances of rising to the top position is to work with the US. Cuba is going to be very short on basic necessities like gasoline very soon. A general who played his cards right could have a strategic advantage if his forces were supplied with food, gasoline and satellite reconnaissance by the US. This is especially true with military leadership being helped by the US who could covertly enforce a “no fly zone” while the conflict ensues as well as neutralizing hostile naval forces.

The questions are what, how and when will this situation be resolved? Who can say for sure? Only the winner in this competition may have a vague notion at this point. But probably it will occur soon after Fidel’s death which means in the coming weeks. Perhaps Cubans will have the Christmas present this year that we all have been waiting for. Pray this will be so and maybe it will. What will pass after he passes is not certain at this point but I doubt it will result in a President Raul. He is too sick and old with a sickly wife as well and no charisma. He may very well leave Cuba when big brother dies further deepening the vacuum. The top leadership has already said the Raul’s stewardship of the nation is only “temporary.” Surely anyone taking the top spot faces a daunting task of leading the nation if they plan on the continued use of central planning. Instead, let’s pray that a white horse emerges who realizes that Cuba has been hijacked by pirates. God, this Christmas I only want one gift. If you give me this gift I will never need another present as long as I live. Por favor, Cuba libre.

Tomás Estrada-Palma