Bolivians were in shock as President Luis Arce’s social media accounts raised concerns about “irregular movements” by Army units, reminiscent of past events. General Juan José Zúñiga, the former head of the Armed Forces, led troops to forcibly enter the presidential palace, claiming to “restructure democracy.” However, President Arce confronted him, ordering the military to return to their barracks, thwarting the apparent coup attempt within hours. Zúñiga and his co-conspirators were arrested soon after, with Zúñiga falsely alleging that the president orchestrated the incursion as a publicity stunt.
The Bolivian government dismissed Zúñiga’s claims, stating that he had lost credibility and that Bolivians no longer support coup attempts. This event serves as a reminder of the fragile political landscape in Bolivia and the continuous struggle to maintain democratic governance.