One of Fidel Castro’s Closest Allies Passes Away
HAVANA: Ramiro Valdés, one of the last surviving leaders of the Cuban Revolution and a longtime ally of Fidel Castro, has died at the age of 94. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced the news on Sunday, describing Valdés as a father-like figure whose death had deeply affected the nation. No official cause of death was disclosed.
Valdés was regarded as one of the most influential figures in post-revolutionary Cuba and held honorary titles including “Hero of the Republic” and “Commander of the Revolution.” For decades, he remained a central figure in the island nation’s political and security establishment.
A Revolutionary From the Beginning
Born on April 28, 1932, Valdés joined Fidel Castro in the historic 1953 attack on the Moncada Barracks, an event widely considered the starting point of the Cuban Revolution. After being exiled to Mexico, he joined Castro and other revolutionaries aboard the yacht Granma in 1956 to launch an armed struggle against the government of Fulgencio Batista.
Valdés was among the small group of revolutionaries who survived the expedition and later fought in the Sierra Maestra mountains alongside Fidel Castro, Raúl Castro, and Ernesto “Che” Guevara. He played a significant role in the decisive Battle of Santa Clara, which paved the way for the revolution’s victory in 1959.
Decades of Influence in Cuban Politics
Following the revolution, Valdés occupied several senior government positions, including Interior Minister, Vice Defence Minister, Communications Minister, Vice President, and Deputy Prime Minister. He was also instrumental in establishing Cuba’s security and intelligence institutions.
Even as Cuba transitioned political leadership to a younger generation, Valdés remained active in government affairs. In recent years, he was closely involved in addressing the country’s energy shortages and economic challenges.
End of an Era
Valdés’ death marks another chapter in the passing of Cuba’s revolutionary generation. Remembered by supporters as a steadfast defender of the revolution, he remained loyal to Cuba’s one-party political system throughout his life. His passing closes the career of one of the most enduring figures of modern Cuban history.
