The former commander of the Bolivian army, General Juan José Zúñiga, along with two other high-ranking officers, has been placed in pretrial detention in a high-security prison. They are accused of leading a failed coup attempt last Wednesday, aimed at overthrowing President Luis Arce. The Bolivian judiciary ordered their detention for six months while investigations continue.
The charges against Zúñiga, former commander of the naval forces Juan Arnaiz, and former commander of the mechanized brigade Alejandro Irahola, include terrorism and armed uprising. They face potential imprisonment of up to 20 years. The Bolivian Minister of the Interior has presented evidence to the judicial authority supporting these accusations.
Zúñiga was initially detained in Chunchocoro prison but was later transferred to El Abra high-security prison in Cochabamba for his safety. This move was necessitated by the hostility he faced from other detainees. In contrast, Arnaiz and Irahola remain in Chunchocoro prison.
During his transfer, Zúñiga, while handcuffed, told the press, 'At some point, the truth will be known.' He has claimed that the coup was a ruse orchestrated by President Luis Arce to bolster his popularity, a claim the president has denied, stating that Zúñiga acted independently.
The total number of arrests related to the coup attempt has reached 21, including a mix of active and retired soldiers and civilians. The coup attempt involved forces equipped with tanks surrounding the presidential palace for several hours before retreating. Among those arrested are high-ranking military officials and personnel involved in the movement and coordination of troops.
This failed coup has plunged Bolivia into a new period of political turmoil, exacerbated by a severe economic crisis. With presidential elections scheduled for 2025, there is growing concern within the military establishment. Popular discontent is rising due to high prices and oil shortages in a country rich in gas and lithium resources, which hold significant international interest.
- The Bolivian court's decision to order preventive detention for six months underscores the gravity of the charges against Zúñiga and his associates. His lawyer, Steven Orellana, mentioned that the legal team is diligently reviewing the prosecutor's accusation to prepare a robust defense.
- President Luis Arce has swiftly acted to reestablish control by dismissing the army commander and appointing a new military command. This move aims to stabilize the situation and prevent further unrest.
- The international community is closely watching the developments in Bolivia, given the country's significant natural resources. The political instability adds another layer of complexity to Bolivia's economic challenges, particularly with the global demand for lithium and gas.
- The backdrop of popular discontent and economic hardships could potentially influence the upcoming presidential elections, making the political landscape in Bolivia highly volatile. The government's handling of the situation will be crucial in determining the country's future stability.
