Failed Coup Attempt Shakes Bolivia

Led by a top general vowing to “restore democracy,” armored vehicles forcefully entered Bolivia’s government palace on Wednesday in what President Luis Arce labeled as a coup attempt. The situation quickly reversed as the leader of the armed forces was arrested and detained, bringing a swift end to the crisis.

The South American country of approximately 12 million people is already grappling with political turmoil and an economic crisis, making this failed coup attempt another challenging event in a series of crises.

President Luis Arce, standing firm, appointed a new army commander who promptly ordered the troops to stand down. Confronting the army chief, General Juan José Zúñiga, Arce demanded the soldiers’ withdrawal, emphasizing his authority. The newly named army chief, José Wilson Sánchez, echoed Arce’s sentiment, urging all mobilized troops to return to their units.

Following the retreat of the armored vehicles, hundreds of Arce’s supporters flooded the square outside the palace, expressing their loyalty and relief. General Zúñiga was subsequently arrested, along with former navy Vice Admiral Juan Arnez Salvador.

Defence Minister Edmundo Novillo declared that the situation was under control, denouncing the failed coup attempt. The incident stemmed from ongoing political tensions between Arce and former president Evo Morales, aggravated by economic hardships and protests against the country’s declining economy.

Despite the coup attempt lacking substantial popular support and Arce’s rivals defending democracy, the aftermath left Bolivians concerned about the future. However, Vice President David Choquehuanca reassured the public, declaring that the Bolivian people would not tolerate any future coup attempts.