After casting his vote in Polling Station 1 in Havana’s Playa municipality, Valdes Mesa remarked that for the first time in Cuba’s constitutional history, a law is being taken to a popular referendum. According to experts, with this step, Cuba became one of the few countries that have developed such an institution of direct democracy.

In statements to reporters, the Cuban vice president noted that this legal standard is modern and inclusive, and complies with Jose Mart’s concept, which states, “With everyone and for the good of all,” since it says No to discrimination and everything that may affect the individuality of people.

He pointed out that it also contains what was expressed by the historic leader of the Revolution, Fidel Castro, regarding the need to “change everything that must be changed” in order to consolidate the Cuban project, and the conviction of Army General Raul Castro that “within unity diversity is possible.”

It is a profoundly revolutionary code, preceded by a broad process of public debate, which establishes the rights of all as a rule, and professes affection and love, he added.

More than 8.4 million Cubans are called to the polls today to participate in the popular referendum on the new Family Code, after its approval by the National People’s Power Assembly (Parliament) in July.

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