Cuba: Elections to take place in October 2017

Event

Cuba's Council of State announced on Wednesday, June 14, that the first round of municipal elections have been scheduled for October 22, 2017. Voters will select municipal assembly members and deputies to the National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP). The second round will be held on October 29.

Context

Fidel Castro's death in December 2016 brought a period of uncertainty to Cuba. Since ceding power to his brother Raúl Castro  in 2006, a number of reforms have been introduced, notably some economic liberalization. Raúl Castro has announced that he will step down as president in February 2018, although he is expected to remain the leader of the ruling Communist Party. 

Advice

Individuals in Cuba are advised to keep abreast of the sociopolitical climate in the coming months.