19 Apr 2018 | 10:59 AM UTC
Cuba: Presidential inauguration in Havana April 19 /update 1
Cuba’s National Assembly to swear in new president and other members of the Council of State on morning of April 19
Event
Cuba’s National Assembly is expected to formally proclaim current First Vice President Miguel Díaz-Canel as the next Cuban president on Thursday, April 19. The announcement is expected at 09:00 (local time) at the Palacio de Convenciones in the capital Havana. It will immediately be followed by Díaz-Canel’s swearing in, along with the inauguration of other Council of State members.
Minor demonstrations by political dissidents are possible, notably in Havana, although any protest would likely be rapidly dispersed by security forces.
Context
Díaz-Canel, relatively young at 57 years old, is seen as socially liberal and a modernizing influence. However, no major policy changes are likely in the short term. Current President Raúl Castro is expected to remain at the head of the Community Party until 2021
Advice
Individuals in Cuba are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid any protests due to the risk of violence and arrest, and avoid discussing politics or saying anything critical of the political system and the Community Party.
