Bush welcomes Castro departure

(01:31) Report

Feb. 19 - U.S. president George Bush says Fidel Castro's decision to step down could be the start of a democratic transition for Cuba.

Castro says he would not seek a new presidential term when Cuba's National Assembly meets on February 24. The 81-year-old has been stricken with an undisclosed illness and has not been seen in public for 19 months. Castro could remain politically influential as first secretary of the ruling Communist Party and elder statesman.

Andrew Potter reports.

Keep track of the lead up to Castros departure:

Castro reappears on television (January 16th, 2008)

Castro hints he may retire (December 17th, 2007)

Castro speaks on Cuban television (September 21st, 2007)

Fidel Castro turns 81 (August 13th, 2007)

Fidel a 'no-show' on May Day (May 1st, 2007)