Castro reassures Cubans in health scare

Fidel Castro’s inner circle has sought to reassure Cubans after intestinal surgery forced him to temporarily cede power to his brother for the first time in 47 years, issuing a statement from the communist leader saying his health is stable, his spirits are good and the defence of the island is guaranteed.

Raul Castro, meanwhile, has remained silent and out of sight, issuing no statements of his own.