ELECTION-TIME VIOLENCE THREATENED IN CUBA

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP79R00890A000400020057-9
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: S
• Document Page Count: 2
• Document Creation Date: December 14, 2016
• Document Release Date: February 6, 2003
• Sequence Number: 57
• Publication Date: October 26, 1954
• Content Type: BRIEF

Approved For Release 200 Isl14-RDP79R00890A000400020057-9
NSC BRIEFING 26 October 1954
ELECTION-TIME VIOLENCE THREATENED IN CUBA
I. Violence may take place in Cuba over the 1 November general
elections. Dictator Batista almost certain to win--either
honestly or otherwise. Opposition may therefore resort to
force before, during, or immediately after the voting.
A. Deposed president Prio is reported planning a revolu-
tionary comeback by 1 November.
Communists (party membership 25,000) are reported
planning to hold anti-regime demonstrations prior
to 1 November and to incite anti-US demonstrations
and riots. Although unable themselves to create
serious widespread disturbances, they can be ex-
pected to take advantage of any revolutionary
outbreak.
II. Elements of widespread disaffection present.
A. Includes majority of students (a politically in-
fluential force); also restive labor elements,
others.
B. Election day propititious time for attack on military
installations, since troops throughout country inter-
changed for assignment polling places.
25X1
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III. Batista government prepared thwart any revolutionary
action.
A. Is reported well aware of anti-regime activities.
B. Batista still has loyalty and support of armed forces,
C. Has arranged for close surveillance of all strategic
points during electoral period.
D. However, sporadic outbreaks of violence are
distinct possibility.
Approved For Release 2003/03/04: CIA ARDP79R00890A000400020057-9