Bolivia recently thwarted a coup attempt orchestrated by high-ranking military and intelligence officials, with more than a dozen individuals arrested in connection to the failed plot. The coup was allegedly spearheaded by the country's former army chief, Gen. Juan Jose Zúñiga, and former navy commander Gen. Juan Arnez, along with other military personnel.
The plan involved mobilizing armed forces towards the capital's main square and seizing power by force, as detailed in a report provided by the Bolivian government. The coup attempt was met with swift condemnation from both the Bolivian government and international leaders.
President Luis Arce, who has been in power since 2020, successfully confronted Gen. Zúñiga during the coup attempt, ordering him to withdraw his soldiers and stand down. Following the incident, the government declared that it had regained total control over the military and urged the population to return to normalcy.
The coup attempt comes at a time when Bolivia is grappling with economic challenges and political instability, leading to widespread street protests. The country has a history of coup attempts, with nearly 40 such incidents recorded since 1946.
An investigation is ongoing to identify all participants involved in the failed coup, with the government report indicating that the Air Force commander was also implicated in the planning. However, no arrests have been made in connection to this individual as of now.
President Arce denied any involvement in the coup attempt, refuting claims made by Gen. Zúñiga that he was acting on the president's instructions. The government remains focused on restoring stability and ensuring the rule of law in Bolivia.
As the investigation continues, the Bolivian authorities are committed to holding all individuals accountable for their roles in the attempted coup, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles and safeguarding the country's political system.
