CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Hugo Chavez’s sudden return to Venezuela after more than two months of cancer treatments in Cuba has fanned speculation that the president could be preparing to relinquish power and make way for a successor and a new election.

The government is insisting that Chavez remains in charge, playing an upbeat jingle on state television Tuesday with the message: “He’s back, he’s back!” But political analysts said he could soon take the oath of office in a delayed swearing-in ceremony as a first step toward a formal resignation, and a transition of power. Taking the oath, however, wouldn’t be required for the country’s congress and Supreme Court to call a new election.