Tags:
Journalism of Courage
Cuban leader Fidel Castro, in his first live comments since falling ill more than six months ago, declared that he feels 8220;more energetic, stronger8221; and said his country is running smoothly without him at the helm.
Calling in to Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez8217;s radio talk show, Castro said, 8220;I feel good and I8217;m happy.8221; During the live broadcast, he said: 8220;I can8217;t promise that I8217;ll go over there soon, but, yes, I8217;m gaining ground. I feel more energetic, stronger.8221;
Castro thanked Chavez for spreading news about his health and complained that his supporters have 8220;the habit, the vice of getting news daily.8221;
He asked for patience as he recuperates, saying 8220;the country is marching along, which is what is important. And I ask for tranquility also for me so that I can fulfill my new tasks.8221;
The conversation was not aired live in Cuba but, shortly afterward, Cuban state television broke into the regular nightly
news programme to broadcast the exchange.
8220;You don8217;t know how happy we are to hear your voice and know that you8217;re well,8221; Chavez said with obvious surprise in his voice at the unexpected call.
