Raul Castro has been elected the top leader of the Cuban Communist Party on the closing day of the party's Congress. It's widely expected he will seek a new economic course for the Caribbean island. Former President Fidel Castro also attended the Congress on Tuesday.

 

Fidel Castro made a surprise appearance at the Congress in Havana, receiving thunderous applause from the delegates present.

The 84-year-old was helped to his place on stage by a young aide, then stood to attention next to his brother during the playing of Cuba's national anthem.

He became animated when Raul's name was read out by a party official announcing the members of the party's Central Committee.

Julio Camacho Aguilera, Member of Central Committee of CCP, said, "As the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Party, we have elected this comrade because of his merits, his path, his loyalty to the people and to the party and to Fidel. And also to the abilities he demonstrated over the years, that guarantees the continuity of the revolution, I am referring to comrade Raul Castro."

Raul Castro was named first secretary of Cuba's Communist Party, with Fidel Castro not included in the leadership for the first time since the party's creation 46 years ago.

Raul announced that Jose Ramon Machado Ventura, an 80-year-old long-time confidante, would be his No. 2.

Ramiro Valdes, a 78-year-old vice president, was named to the No. 3 spot.

Several younger people were added to the 15-member leadership group.