Chavez health stirs Venezuela uncertainty

[Zorro]

Questions over President Hugo Chavez's health led some Venezuela observers to predict his party's vulnerability at recent regional elections. Instead, the Bolivarian Revolution once again proved its power - even without "El Comandante" at the helm.

The next political challenge for Chavez as he battles cancer is making it home from Cuba by January 10 - the day of his scheduled inauguration for his third term in office.

If Chavez is unable to leave the Havana hospital and get back to Caracas to be sworn-in by Thursday January 10, Venezuela's constitution outlines a new presidential election must be called within 30 days - a situation that the president's allies have suggested may not happen.

"You cannot subject people's decision to one single date, no matter what the constitution says," said Diosdado Cabello, president of the National Assembly and a Chavez ally.

More at: http://en-maktoob.news.yahoo.com/chavez-health-stirs-venezuela-uncertainty-113636312.html

[Bacchus4.0]

1. I suspect we won't hear much until after January 10

Chavez will "remain alive" at least until then. My understanding is if Chavez dies prior to that date, new elections must be held. After swearing in, Maduro takes over.

[joshcryer]

2. Nah, if he dies after taking office they still must have new elections.

The homophobic bigoted Maduro only takes over if the President dies in the last two years of office.

There is no accession to the Presidency for the VP of Venezuela (edit: in the first 4 years). Thankfully, since the people don't vote for him and he is selected by the President elect.

[Bacchus4.0]

3. thanks for the clarification n/t

s