Cuban state-run media report that the nation’s Communist Party has approved sweeping economic reforms and voted for new party leaders at a historic congress in Havana.
The reforms offered by President Raul Castro include significant changes to Cuba’s economic system, including decentralization of the island nation’s economy, a shift toward private enterprise and the eventual elimination of ration books and other subsidies. Reforms also include two, five-year term limits for politicians.
Details of the more than 300 proposals voted on by delegates Monday were not released.
A vote on the party leadership is highly anticipated, as Raul Castro is expected to officially take over his brother, Fidel Castro’s, role as First Secretary. The vote also is expected to hint at who eventually may replace the aging brothers.
About 1,000 delegates convened for the four-day convention, which is only the sixth time the party has met in its nearly 50-year history.
Raul Castro’s proposed reforms come during tough economic times for Cuba.
Fidel Castro praised his brother’s proposals for major economic reforms. Together, the brothers have ruled the small Caribbean nation for 52 years.
