In a dramatic sequence of events, the Bolivian armed forces retreated from La Paz’s presidential palace on Wednesday evening, resulting in the arrest of Army General Juan José Zúñiga. The high-stakes incident was labeled an “attempted coup” by President Luis Arce, who called for international support. Here are the key details:
Earlier in the day, military units led by General Zúñiga, who had recently been stripped of his command, converged in the central Plaza Murillo square, home to the presidential palace and Congress. An armored vehicle breached the palace doors, and soldiers surged inside.
President Arce promptly labeled the situation a coup attempt, emphasizing the need for Bolivians to defend their democracy. Armed soldiers stood guard outside the palace as Arce addressed the nation, urging unity and resilience.
Within hours, the situation shifted dramatically. Initially appearing to have taken control, the troops were ordered to stand down by a newly appointed army commander. The rebellion concluded after three intense hours, marking a swift resolution.
As the soldiers retreated, hundreds of Arce’s supporters flooded the square, waving Bolivian flags, singing the national anthem, and cheering in a powerful display of solidarity.
Following the retreat, General Zúñiga was arrested, and the attorney general initiated an investigation. Former navy Vice Adm. Juan Arnez Salvador was also taken into custody, highlighting the seriousness of the coup attempt.
This crisis occurred amidst Bolivia’s ongoing financial chaos and political deadlock. Tensions between President Arce and his former ally, ex-President Evo Morales, have further complicated governance and efforts to address the economic crisis.
In a poignant statement, Zúñiga expressed the military’s frustration with internal strife, emphasizing their mission to “restore democracy.” This failed coup underscores Bolivia’s fragile political landscape and the urgent need for stability.