Cuban lawmakers have adopted a draft of a new constitution that omits the word “communism” and recognizes same-sex marriages and private property.
The draft of the new constitution, which was adopted by lawmakers in Havana on Sunday, includes provisions that for the first time mention the concept of private property and describe foreign investments as important for economic growth.
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According to the new document, future presidents will not be able to serve more than ten years in office, and the role of ‘President of the Republic’ will be separated from the head of the State Council. The new constitution will also introduce the role of Prime Minister for the first time since 1976.
The Cuban Communist Party remains the only legal party.
Cuban residents will consider all reforms at public forums over the next three months before deciding to vote for or against them in a referendum.
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Marriage will be defined as a voluntary union between two individuals, rather than between a man and a woman, thus opening it up to same-sex marriages. The conclusion on same-sex marriage through constitutional reform was advocated by representative Mariela Castro, daughter of former president Raul Castro.
