Castro may not attend birthday party -Cuban group

HAVANA, Nov 8 (Reuters) The group organising Fidel Castro's 80th birthday party said it was unsure the Cuban leader would attend the December 2 celebration that also will mark the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution's start.

The group's statement was the latest signal about Castro's health since intestinal surgery in July forced him to temporarily cede power to his brother Raul.

''In the opportune moment, in the midst of Fidel's disciplined process of recovery, he will decide the circumstances in which it will be possible for him to accompany those of us who will be here,'' said Alfredo Vera, coordinator of the Guayasamin Foundation in charge of the birthday events.

Vera, reading from a statement at a Havana press conference yesterday, declined to elaborate.

Cuban officials say Castro is improving from the operation for an undisclosed illness. Recently they have been noncommittal about whether he would attend next month's events.

Castro turned 80 on August 13, but his birthday celebration was postponed due to the surgery. He has not been seen since late July except in photos and videos. The most recent ones, on October 28, showed him to be frail and gaunt.

A large military parade in Havana's Plaza of the Revolution is scheduled on December 2.

REUTERS DH BST0709