Chavez council stirs succession speculation

(CNN) -- With his health in question and speculation rampant about his future, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has named 10 Venezuelans to an influential commission.

The Council of State, as it is known, is stipulated in the Venezuelan Constitution as the highest circle of advisers to the president, but has never actually been formed.

Now in a battle with cancer, Chavez announced in January that it was time to constitute the council, and Wednesday named his appointments.

Venezuelans and international observers alike are likely to scrutinize his choices for any signs of transition or succession should Chavez become incapacitated.

Chavez's choices include a veteran of his administration, a military man and a writer, among others.

The president of the council will be Vice President Elias Jaua, as the constitution stipulates.