Bolivian Coup Attempt: Key Developments
On June 26, 2024, Bolivia faced a failed coup attempt led by General Juan José Zúñiga. The general was arrested while addressing the press outside a barracks in La Paz. This incident occurred following his removal from the position of Army Chief, allegedly for opposing former President Evo Morales’ potential re-election. Zúñiga, flanked by soldiers, declared his intention to 'restore democracy' and address the country's economic issues.
President Luis Arce's Response
President Luis Arce swiftly responded to the coup attempt by calling on Bolivians to mobilize in defense of democracy. Arce confronted Zúñiga in the presidential palace, ordering him to withdraw his troops. The situation de-escalated when Zúñiga's successor, General José Sánchez, commanded the soldiers to return to their units. Arce also appointed new heads for the Bolivian Navy and Air Force.
International Reactions and Political Context
The attempted coup drew widespread condemnation from international leaders, including the presidents of Chile, Paraguay, and Mexico, as well as the European Union and the Organization of American States (OAS). The political tension in Bolivia has been rising ahead of the 2025 general elections, with former President Morales planning to run against Arce. Morales and Arce, both members of the Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS) party, have publicly split, adding to the country's political instability.
- The Bolivian Attorney General's Office has launched a criminal investigation against General Zúñiga and other participants involved in the coup attempt. The office has vowed to impose maximum punishment on those responsible.
- Fredy Mamani, former vice minister of Foreign Affairs and ally of Morales and Arce, emphasized the unity of the Bolivian people against any coup d'état, despite the presence of tanks and uniformed soldiers in the capital.
- The European Union and the OAS have reiterated their support for Bolivia's constitutional order and the legitimate government of Luis Arce, condemning any attempts to overthrow democratically elected governments.
