
(Scypre.com) – In a dramatic turn of events that sent shockwaves through Bolivia and reverberated globally, an alleged coup attempt orchestrated by army general commander Juan Jose Zuniga was swiftly quelled on Wednesday. Troops under Zuniga’s command had stormed the presidential palace, triggering fears of political instability in the Andean nation.
The incident unfolded with startling speed. Reports emerged of tanks blocking the palace gates and soldiers taking strategic positions around the government headquarters in La Paz. However, within hours of the incursion, international condemnation poured in, and Zuniga ultimately ordered his troops to withdraw. President Luis Arce, who confronted Zuniga directly during the standoff, hailed the retreat as a triumph for Bolivian democracy.
“Many thanks to the Bolivian people,” President Arce declared in a televised address following the events. “Long live democracy.”
The clash between Arce and Zuniga underscored deeper fissures within Bolivia’s political landscape. Since assuming office in 2020, Arce has grappled with challenges from both left-wing factions, including his predecessor Evo Morales, and right-wing forces, particularly prominent in regions like Santa Cruz. These tensions have been exacerbated by economic crises and widespread discontent.
Al Jazeera correspondent John Holman provided context to the unfolding turmoil: “The president is facing significant challenges with low approval ratings, a struggling economy, and a contentious relationship with Evo Morales.”
Zuniga, who was reportedly dismissed by Arce earlier in the week, justified his actions on grounds of national malaise and a need for change. “Our country cannot continue like this any longer,” he asserted, calling for reforms and the release of political prisoners.
The attempted coup prompted swift domestic backlash. Bolivia’s largest labor union initiated an indefinite strike in solidarity with Arce’s administration. Social media videos circulated showing citizens confronting pro-coup forces, highlighting widespread public resistance to any threat against democratic governance.
Former President Evo Morales, a key figure in Bolivian politics, condemned the military’s actions and called for legal repercussions against those involved. Even Jeanine Anez, who assumed power after Morales’ departure in 2019, voiced unequivocal rejection of the military’s intervention.
Amidst these developments, President Arce appeared resolute, presenting a united front with his cabinet and vowing to safeguard Bolivia’s democratic institutions against any further challenges. He emphasized the need for national unity in the face of what he described as an attempted coup.
The international community responded with concern and condemnation. Leaders from across Latin America, including Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Chilean President Gabriel Boric, expressed solidarity with Bolivia and reiterated the importance of upholding constitutional order.
“The events in Bolivia are deeply troubling,” stated a White House spokesperson, echoing broader international calls for restraint and adherence to democratic norms.
As General Zuniga was arrested and accusations swirled regarding the origins of the alleged coup, Bolivia finds itself at a precarious juncture. The events of Wednesday serve as a stark reminder of the country’s volatile political history and the challenges ahead for President Arce’s administration.
For now, Bolivia appears to have avoided a full-blown crisis, but the underlying tensions and divisions within society remain unresolved. As the nation grapples with its future, the specter of political instability looms large, posing enduring challenges to its democratic institutions and societal cohesion.