Bolivian President Arce Thwarts Military Coup
In a dramatic turn of events, Bolivian President Luis Arce successfully averted a coup attempt orchestrated by renegade military officers. The crisis unfolded in La Paz, where tanks rolled through the city center and soldiers stormed the government palace. President Arce confronted the coup leaders, led by General Juan José Zúñiga, and ordered the withdrawal of troops. Shortly after, Arce removed the army chief from office and replaced the entire leadership of the armed forces, who then commanded the troops to retreat.
Coup Leaders Face Severe Consequences
The Bolivian Attorney General's Office has launched an investigation into the coup's main perpetrators, General Juan José Zúñiga and Vice Admiral Juan Arnez Salvador. Accused of terrorism and armed rebellion, they face up to 30 years in prison if convicted. The coup attempt, which lasted just over three hours, saw soldiers occupy the central Murillo Square in La Paz, resulting in nine injuries. Interior Minister Eduardo del Castillo condemned the actions, stating that the commanders not only spread fear but also used firearms against the Bolivian people.
International Support and Political Ramifications
The coup attempt has significant political ramifications, particularly concerning the candidacy of former President Evo Morales. Zúñiga had threatened to oppose Morales' return to power, leading to his dismissal. Both Morales and Arce are currently vying for control within the ruling MAS party. International organizations and Latin American leaders have expressed their support for Arce's democratically elected government. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UN Secretary-General António Guterres have condemned the coup attempt and called for the protection of Bolivia's constitutional order.
- In a national message broadcast live, President Arce emphasized the importance of democracy and rejected any further coup attempts. Social organizations and supporters gathered in Murillo Square, chanting slogans in favor of Arce, despite the military's use of tear gas to disperse them.
- The Central Obrera Boliviana (COB), the workers' union, declared a general strike and called for mobilizations. Diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, including Argentina, remain tense but functional. Argentine Ambassador Marcelo Adrián Massoni described the situation as confusing but under control, emphasizing the need for institutional stability and democracy.
