In a dramatic turn of events, the normally calm Plaza Murillo in La Paz was the scene of a brief coup attempt that unfolded within a matter of hours. Former army chief Juan José Zuñiga led the mutiny, confronting President Luis Arce before retreating in a bulletproof vehicle.
Although the coup was short-lived, it left Bolivians rattled and sparked speculation about political motives. Zuñiga accused Arce of orchestrating a “sham coup” to boost his popularity, a claim vehemently denied by the president.
The swift action by Arce and the military helped quell the uprising and resulted in several arrests, including a former Navy vice-admiral. The incident highlighted the political and economic challenges facing Bolivia, with Arce battling a floundering economy amid protests and internal party discord.
Despite ongoing power struggles with former president Evo Morales, Arce continues to navigate a turbulent political landscape. Rumors of a “self-coup” loom large, threatening to further destabilize his already fragile government.
Only time will tell how this tumultuous incident will shape Bolivia’s future and the fate of its embattled leader.