Bolivian president compares Fidel to indigenous leader for fighting imperialism

Bolivian President Evo Morales on Sunday compared Fidel Castro, the Cuban revolutionary leader, to the indigenous leader, Tupac Katari, who fought against Spanish colonialists in the 18th century.

"Our leader Fidel Castro ... should be considered like Tupac Katari, for facing North American domination and the capitalist system, as our grandfather Tupac Katari faced Spanish colonialism," said Morales in a public appearance in La Paz.

In 1781, Tupac Katari led an indigenous revolt against the Spanish. Leading an army of about 40,000 people, he besieged La Paz for several months before being defeated by the Spanish. He was then condemned to death and executed by being quartered, although his legend lived on.

Morales said that Castro had left behind a legacy of anti-imperialist struggle and that his anti-capitalist ideas would echo through time.

The Bolivian president and Castro maintained a close friendship, dating back to before Morales entered government and was a trade unionist.

Morales was a frequent visitor to Cuba and met with Castro regularly to seek his advice.

The Bolivian leader also lashed out at U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who released a statement condemning the Cuban leader.

""The president-elect of the United States is celebrating. I cannot understand ... the cynicism to celebrate the death of Fidel, that is the culture of capitalism," he said. Endit