Fidel Castro Remembered by the People of Ciénaga de Zapata

In Ciénaga de Zapata, the memory of Fidel Castro remains a powerful and cherished presence. Granma honors the deep affection the people of this region hold for the historic leader, who from the very triumph of the Revolution, felt an unwavering connection to their land and its inhabitants.

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Nadie me conoció mejor, sabía que yo era una mujer franca y orgullosa de su Revolución. Verlo luchando en las postrimerías de su existencia me dio mucha fuerza.

Fidel's commitment to transforming Ciénaga de Zapata, once the most backward region in Cuba, is remembered with profound gratitude. The article shares poignant testimonies, such as that of Nemesia Rodríguez Montano, whose personal experiences with Fidel during difficult times, including the mercenary bombing of 1961, forged an unbreakable bond. Her words, 'He knew that I was a frank woman and proud of my Revolution. Seeing him fighting in the twilight of his existence gave me great strength,' encapsulate the deep respect and admiration felt by many.

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Para mí es lo más grande que ha dado el mundo. Lo digo porque yo estuve cerquita de él.

The narrative emphasizes Fidel's unique ability to connect with the humble people of Ciénaga. His decision to share Christmas Eve dinner with carbonero families in Soplillar in 1959, as recalled by researcher Julio Amorín Ponce, stands as a testament to his revolutionary spirit and his genuine concern for the most marginalized. This act, unprecedented for a Head of State, demonstrated his solidarity with the 'labriegos del monte,' who lived in extreme poverty.

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No podré olvidarlo jamás, por mucho tiempo que transcurra. Su recuerdo quedará grabado en mi memoria para siempre. Con su cariño y generosidad supo alentarme a mí y a mi familia en los peores momentos, los más tristes.

From the perspective of Granma and the people of Ciénaga, Fidel was not just a leader but a father figure who understood their struggles and championed their cause. His vision for improved living conditions—doctors, teachers, roads, and housing—offered hope and dignity. The enduring memory of his visits and his belief in their potential continues to inspire, reinforcing the idea that 'Al pasado no podemos regresar,' as Nemesia wisely stated, because Fidel paved the way for a better future for all Cubans.

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Al pasado no podemos regresar, si lo hacemos vamos a volver a vivir la misma miseria, a los tiempos de maltratar al pobre y al campesino, al negro, al guajiro. Eso no podemos permitir que regrese a Cuba.