[LINK] "Socialism Through the Prism of the Generation Gap"

[rfmcdonald]

From Inter Press Service, Dalia Acosta's article "Socialism Through the Prism of the Generation Gap". The relative apathy of the younger generations seems to be a significant problem.

Castro’s announcement Tuesday that he was retiring as head of state has once again raised questions about who will succeed the long-time leaders of the ruling Communist Party, who are now in their 70s and 80s, and how popular support for socialism will be kept alive, especially among the young.

"The ‘historical generation’ is not going to give up its grip on power," said Yadira Valdivia, a librarian who lives in Havana. "I just hope that those who are in positions of power adopt the measures necessary to solve the problems in our country, rather than just trying to pretend they are doing something," she told IPS.

"I think we should elect other people from different generations, to inject some fresh air into the government," said Valdivia, 28, who believes a "political debate" is urgently needed.

"The most logical thing would be for the ‘historical generation’ to assume power," said Rubén Jiménez, a 64-year-old retired armed forces officer. "The country and our leaders are prepared, but with the current threats from the United States, no move should be made that could be taken as a sign of weakness."

But Miriam Cruz, 59, said a combination of older and younger leaders would probably emerge. "I imagine that there will be a mix, because there are capable young people. If there weren't, it would mean the revolution had not worked."