In a dramatic turn of events in Bolivia, President Luis Arce confronted General Juan José Zúñiga during an attempted coup d'état at the Palacio Quemado in La Paz. The tense face-off, captured in a newly surfaced video, shows Arce firmly ordering Zúñiga to withdraw the military police, a command that Zúñiga openly defied.
Surrounded by key officials, including Minister of Government Eduardo del Castillo and Minister of the Presidency María Nela Prada, Arce held his ground amid the chaos. The confrontation escalated with heated exchanges, as Arce displayed the presidential baton and demanded respect for the democratic order. Despite the tension, Zúñiga and his generals hesitated but ultimately retreated.
Following the attempted coup, Bolivian forces arrested General Juan José Zúñiga and Navy head Juan Arnez Salvador on charges of terrorism and armed uprising. The arrests took place after rebellious soldiers had besieged the government headquarters for hours, even using tear gas against civilians.
The Organization of American States (OAS) condemned the military’s actions, emphasizing the need for the armed forces to submit to civil authority. OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro expressed solidarity with President Arce, affirming that any violation of the constitutional order would not be tolerated.
Former President Evo Morales, an initial ally turned political rival of Arce, called for mobilizations in support of the government. However, he later suspended the call after calm was restored at the government headquarters. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with widespread calls for the preservation of democracy in Bolivia.
- President Luis Arce's confrontation with General Juan José Zúñiga marks a significant moment in Bolivia's political history. The face-off in the Palacio Quemado highlighted the tension between the military and the civilian government, showcasing Arce's determination to uphold democratic principles.
- The arrests of General Zúñiga and Navy head Juan Arnez Salvador signal a strong response from the Bolivian government against the coup attempt. The charges of terrorism and armed uprising reflect the severity of the situation and the government's commitment to maintaining order.
- The Organization of American States (OAS) played a crucial role in condemning the military's actions and supporting President Arce. OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro's statements underscored the importance of adhering to the Inter-American Democratic Charter and the need for the military to respect civil authority.
- Former President Evo Morales' involvement in calling for mobilizations highlights the complex political dynamics in Bolivia. Despite their political rivalry, Morales and Arce found common ground in defending democracy against the military uprising. The suspension of the mobilization call after calm was restored indicates a strategic approach to maintaining stability.
