Raúl Castro, who has labored in the shadow of his brother Fidel since the days of their revolution, became Cuba's new president on Sunday, ending his brother's 49-year rule and washing away hopes on this Communist island that a younger generation might take power.

In his first words as president, Mr. Castro made it clear that he would make no radical changes and promised to consult his brother on every important decision.

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.

Presidential candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barack Obama and John McCain called for the release of political prisoners in Cuba following Fidel Castro's resignation Tuesday.

All three candidates also said the United States should look for ways to encourage Democratic reforms in Cuba.

...

"Cuba's future should be determined by the Cuban people and not by an anti-democratic successor regime," Obama said. "The prompt release of all prisoners of conscience wrongly jailed for standing up for the basic freedoms too long denied to the Cuban people would mark an important break with the past. It's time for these heroes to be released."

Last Friday, February 15, I promised you that in my next reflection I would deal with an issue of interest to many compatriots. Thus, this now is rather a message.

The moment has come to nominate and elect the State Council, its President, its Vice-Presidents and Secretary.

...

This is not my farewell to you. My only wish is to fight as a soldier in the battle of ideas. I shall continue to write under the heading of 'Reflections by comrade Fidel.' It will be just another weapon you can count on. Perhaps my voice will be heard. I shall be careful.

Thanks.

Fidel Castro Ruz

He gives up his presidency to become ... a blogger?