Reply #14: Here's another article, from the Chicago Tribune, which has its own bureau in Havana. [View All]

[Judi Lynn]

Lucid Castro talks on Cuba television
He seems largely alert, criticizes U.S.
By Michael Martinez Tribune correspondent
September 22, 2007

HAVANA - Largely alert and lucid, Fidel Castro made a surprise appearance on a television news program Friday evening in a prerecorded hourlong interview, speaking about an essay he wrote earlier this week accusing the U.S. of threatening the global economy.

His appearance was unusual because Castro has mostly been out of the public eye since he underwent emergency intestinal surgery 14 months ago. The government has at times shown photographs and video of Castro, but his exact illness and prognosis are secrets. Castro's only other long television interview was in early June.

During Friday's interview, Castro's voice remained weak. But he maintained his signature ability for rambling discourse, as well as animated gestures, including once slapping an object that was off screen.

On a few occasions, the interviewer had to coach and prompt Castro, including correcting Castro on the number of "Reflections" columns -- 45 -- he has written during his illness. He seemed to be at a loss for words at points but became energized as time went along.

Castro's appearance comes as rumors about his demise have reached a fever pitch in the Cuban exile community in South Florida, but his appearance Friday suggested he is slowly gaining strength during a more than yearlong convalescence.

More:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/services/newspaper/printedition/saturday/chi-castro_martinez1sep22,0,3709356.story