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In a stunning turn of events, Bolivian police have apprehended the leader of an attempted coup just hours after soldiers raided the presidential palace in the capital city of La Paz. Armored vehicles and troops had positioned themselves on Murillo Square, where crucial government buildings reside, only to withdraw later.
The rebel military leader, General Juan José Zúñiga, who had expressed intentions to “restructure democracy,” found himself under arrest.
Although he initially claimed respect for Bolivian President Luis Arce, he also hinted at an imminent change in government. President Arce swiftly condemned the coup attempt, urging the public to rally in support of democracy.
Pro-democracy demonstrators rally in solidarity
President Arce’s resolute words struck a chord with the people, as pro-democracy demonstrators flooded the streets to show their unwavering support for the government.
Bolivians united to protect their democratic principles, refusing to let another coup endanger their lives.
President Arce, determined to maintain stability, announced the appointment of new military commanders, confirming the dismissal of General Zúñiga.
This decision came after the general openly criticized Bolivia’s former leader, Evo Morales, prompting Morales to denounce the coup attempt and demand justice.
Bolivia’s political landscape
Despite the brevity and ill-judgment of this military uprising, the upcoming weeks will prove crucial in determining whether General Zúñiga’s insurrection was an isolated incident or a sign of larger unrest.
While the government appears more vulnerable, any future challenges to President Arce’s administration are likely to occur through political means rather than military force.
Evo Morales, the influential former president and elder statesman of Bolivia’s left, rallied his supporters, particularly the indigenous coca-growers movement, to take to the streets and demand an end to the attempted coup.
The display of popular power reinforced the resolve to thwart General Zúñiga’s plans, which included the release of “political prisoners,” including former leader Jeanine Áñez.
Formerly allies, President Arce and Evo Morales have recently had disagreements. However, they stand united in their condemnation of utilizing military forces to achieve political change in Bolivia. The forced removal of President Morales in 2019 by military chiefs, accusing him of manipulating election results, led to his exile in Mexico. Evo Morales had brought much-needed stability to Bolivia, which had a tumultuous political past before his tenure.
Bolivian democracy receives international support
President Arce, who assumed power after a period of instability following the 2019 election, found solace in the swift regional response.
Allies such as Venezuela and Colombia’s left-wing governments wasted no time in denouncing the coup attempt and advocating for the preservation of democracy.
Even those who opposed President Arce’s socialist rule recognize the dangers of returning to a dark era in South America where democratically elected leaders were forcibly ousted by military forces.
As the sun sets on this tumultuous chapter, Bolivia stands resilient, showcasing the strength of its democracy and the unity of its people in the face of adversity.
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