On Fidel

NO JAMAICAN leader, not even Garvey, has so incarnated the yearning and struggle for freedom and equality among the people of South America and the Caribbean as Fidel Castro. Those of contrarian views, like this writer, would probably not have survived under his regime. But his commitment to effective education and health care in Cuba, as well as his support for anti-imperialism and against minority rule internationally, were measures of his greatness.

Jamaicans continue to benefit substantially from Cuban solidarity and most of our people appreciate this and will mourn his death. Recall the unprecedented roar of welcome throughout Kingston when Fidel came unannounced to Michael’s funeral. It is to our national credit that while others shied away, Jamaica recognised Cuba diplomatically and has decried the unjust United States embargo every year at the United Nations as well as through local parliamentary resolution.