Fidel Castro's State of Health
The exact nature of Castro's condition is a closely guarded state secret.
Fidel Castro, aged 80, continues to recover from surgery he underwent in July to stop intestinal bleeding. One thing that the surgeons cannot stop, though, are the persistent rumors and premature reports of his death.
Not known for being a tell-all government when it comes to things like Castro's health, the official line is that Castro is getting better and that y'all can forget about any further information, since his health is officially classified as a state secret.
Government officials have, however, helpfully ruled out cancer or any other nasty terminal illness. As yet, no one has been bold enough to suggest a game of charades to get closer to the truth.
Meanwhile, Castro's younger brother, Raul, aged 75, is, by all accounts, settling in well as he runs the show in place of his brother, whom he described as irreplaceable. He recently raised eyebrows by announcing that he would delegate more responsibility, a sharp departure from the micromanaging-maniacal style of his older brother. Raul Castro also promised more debate and, for long-suffering listeners of Fidel's speeches, which often run for hours on end, Raul has pledged to give shorter speeches.
