While there are conflicting reports on the severity of the condition of Hugo Chavez following his latest cancer surgery, it seems increasingly possible that his days in office are numbered. With the possibility that he will either not live long enough or be healthy enough to take the oath of office next week, discussions are underway to determine the best course if the ailing leader is unable to recover from his latest health setback by January 10. Will the letter of the Constitution be adhered to, or will some special circumstance be invoked in an effort to maintain the ailing president’s hold on power? And what will happen if Chavez, Venezuela’s President since 1999, is unable to fulfill his duties? Cindy Arnson, Director of the Wilson Center’s Latin American Program has been monitoring the situation and provides context on what to expect in the coming days and weeks.
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