Cuba stages last May Day parade under Castro

HAVANA: Millions of Cubans rallied in May Day parades Monday, the last to be overseen by President Raul Castro -- and the first without his late brother and revolutionary predecessor Fidel.

The rallies filled Havana´s Revolution Square and other spots across the country in a sea of red, white and blue national flags and giant portraits of Fidel Castro.

Traditionally a day of protest and defense of workers´ rights worldwide, the May Day rally in communist Cuba is unusual in being a march in support of the authorities.

The government still employs 70 percent of the five million workers on the island of 11 million people.

Fidel Castro died in November and Raul, 85, has said that he will step aside in February 2018 after 12 years in power.

"I don´t think Cubans are ready to accept another president," said Mariana Gonzalez, a 28-year-old economist, at the march in Havana. "People will accept one grudgingly at first until he shows he is capable."

Raul Castro has been cautiously opening up Cuba´s state-run economy and strengthening its foreign relations.

He re-established diplomatic ties with the United States in 2015. But Monday´s parade had the feel of the end of an era.

Raul Castro attended in his trademark green military cap and uniform, but did not make a speech. It is not clear who will take his place next year as president.

Most rumors suggest it will be Miguel Diaz-Canel, 56, vice-president of the State Council.

Castro´s supporters on Monday were hopeful that the transfer of power will be smooth.

He is expected to retain considerable influence since he will remain leader of the governing Communist Party.