CUBA

The report of Dr. Barnet's election to the provisional presidency of Cuba presages a peaceful and legal election toward the end of December, when the constitutional president will be chosen. The resignation of former President Mendieta was a wise and politic move and it has proved conclusively that the welfare of the reborn republic has always been foremost in his mind.

During the turbulent days following the abdication of the dictator Machado, Cuba was gripped in the throes of fear. A quick succession of presidents, including Grau San. Martin, de Cespedes and finally Mendieta made for suspicion and distrust. The efforts of Dr. BcBain of Columbia resulted in a new electoral system, and the government of the United States was largely instrumental in advising the Cuban government during the remodelling of its constitution. With these vital changes came a feeling of trust and good-will and through the reciprocal tariff agreement Cuba was largely restored to that prosperity which was hers eight years before. Under the provisional president, Dr. Mendieta, legal elections were set for December, 1935 and to remove all suspicion of American interference in the internal affairs of Cuba, Dr. Mendieta announced he would not run for office.

His recent resignations some weeks before the constitutional elections were to be held came as a result of a dead-lock, largely due to the efforts of two important political groups to dominate the scene through an alliance. Their plan foiled by the declaration of the Electoral Council that such a move would be unconstitutional, they refused to fall back into line. Dr. Mendieta's resignation has allowed a compromise and his place will be filled by Dr. Barnet who, as Secretary of State is the logical choice and who has the support of the army chief, Fulgencio Batista.

Through the quick and unselfish efforts of Dr. Mendieta, and with the aid of Dr. Dodds of Princeton, the Cuba political horizon has cleared considerably. If the December elections come off as scheduled and with a minimum of violence and disturbance, Cuba will rapidly forge ahead and regain her former peace and prosperity. Her friendship and cooperation will be a vital and immeasurable aid to the United States in formulating and maintaining our Latin-American policy during the years to come.