Commemoration of the Anniversary of the Passing of Fidel Castro in Auckland

Auckland, 23 November 2025.— On the occasion of a new anniversary of the passing of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz, the Auckland Cuba Friendship Association organized a heartfelt commemorative event at the Onehunga Library. The gathering brought together around half of hundred guests, including representatives from various sectors of New Zealand society and members of the community in solidarity with Cuba.

Among the attendees were Labour MP Lemauga Lydia Sosene; Rongo Wetere, former Chancellor of Te Wānanga Aotearoa University; and Dr. Robert Bartholomew, professor and sociologist.

In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Cuba to New Zealand, Luis Ernesto Morejón Rodríguez, underscored the enduring relevance of Fidel Castro’s thought and legacy for present and future generations. He emphasized that Fidel’s example continues to guide peoples who defend social justice, human dignity, and national sovereignty.

The Ambassador offered special recognition to Rongo Wetere, highlighting his key contribution to the implementation of the Cuban literacy program "Yes, I can" in Māori communities in New Zealand, a project carried out with the support of Cuban specialists. He also acknowledged the work of Professor Robert Bartholomew, who—guided by professional ethics and scientific integrity—deconstructed in his book Havana Syndrome the unfounded narrative surrounding the alleged “sonic attacks” in Havana.

As part of the dialogue with attendees, and responding to their interest in current events, the Ambassador provided an update on the recovery efforts under way in Cuba’s eastern provinces following the impact of Hurricane Melissa, as well as on the challenges facing Venezuela, the Caribbean, and Latin America as a whole in light of the unjustified and offensive military deployment of the United States in the region.

Both Wetere and Bartholomew delivered moving presentations, sharing personal experiences, their ties to Cuba, and their admiration for the resilience of the Cuban people, shaped by the values, principles, and example of Fidel Castro. Their reflections reinforced the importance of solidarity, justice, and truth as pillars of human relations and international friendship.

As the culminating moment of the event, the documentary “Hoy va a hablar Fidel” (“Today Fidel Will Speak”), directed by acclaimed Cuban filmmaker Jorge Luis Sánchez, was screened. The film, which combines archival material and testimonies, highlights emblematic moments of Fidel Castro’s oratory, his bond with the people, and his role as a global statesman, offering a contemporary perspective on the ethical, political, and human strength of his leadership.

The event concluded with an exchange among attendees, who reiterated their support for the Cuban people and their commitment to defending historical truth, solidarity, and the friendship between Cuba and New Zealand.