Interior Minister Dismissed in Cuba

Cuban Vice President Ramiro Valdes, who has run internal security for much of Fidel Castro’s rule, has been dismissed from his post as interior minister, the government said Tuesday.

No reason was given for Valdes’ removal, just two months before the Cuban Communist Party holds its third congress, but persistent rumors have circulated of a clash between him and Justice Minister Juan Escalona.

Diplomats said the move fits a pattern that has emerged ahead of each congress, which meets every five years, as veteran revolutionaries have been shifted sideways to make room for fresh blood.

A statement published in the official newspaper Granma said that Valdes, a legendary figure who fought alongside Castro from the start of his guerrilla campaign in the 1950s, will keep his other posts.