Miguel Diaz-Canel

Miguel Díaz-Canel was elected President of the Council of State and Council of Ministers by the National Assembly, succeeding Raúl Castro. He became the first non-Castro to lead Cuba since the 1959 revolution, marking a generational shift.

Díaz-Canel's government announced a series of economic reforms, including allowing small and medium-sized private enterprises, unifying the dual currency system, and reducing state subsidies. The reforms aimed to address chronic economic inefficiencies but faced implementation challenges.

Díaz-Canel's government faced the largest anti-government protests in decades, sparked by economic hardship, food shortages, and COVID-19 restrictions. The protests were met with a crackdown, with thousands arrested. The events highlighted deep discontent with the regime.

Díaz-Canel was re-elected as President of Cuba by the National Assembly for a second five-year term. His re-election signaled continuity of the Communist Party's rule, with no significant political opening despite ongoing economic crisis.