La Paz, Bolivia – Bolivian President Luis Arce called for popular mobilization against what he described as an ongoing “coup d’état”. In a video message broadcast from the presidential palace and surrounded by his ministers, Arce denounced “irregular movements” within the army, including the unauthorized presence of troops and armored vehicles in front of the government headquarters in La Paz.
“The Bolivian people are called today to organize and mobilize in favor of democracy,” the president said. The situation in the capital remained tense after military units, armored vehicles, and even a tank were seen parked in Murillo Square, in front of the presidency. Arce had already reported on the X social network (formerly Twitter) these “irregular movements” of certain units of the Bolivian army.
Former President Evo Morales (2006-2019) also reacted quickly, stating that “a coup d’état is being prepared”. Morales called for a “national mobilization to defend democracy.”
According to AFP journalists on the ground, an armored vehicle tried to force a metal gate of the Palacio Quemado, the seat of the presidency, and the army chief, General Juan José Zuniga, briefly entered the palace. Rumors had been circulating since Tuesday that General Zuniga, in office since November 2022, could be removed from his position.
“Restructuring democracy”
General Zuniga, accused by President Arce of attempting a coup d’état, stated that the military intended to “restructure democracy” in Bolivia. “The armed forces are trying to restructure democracy, to create a true democracy, not one where a few have been ruling the country for 30 or 40 years,” Zuniga said, surrounded by soldiers in front of the presidential headquarters.
Wednesday night, the military finally left the square in front of the presidential palace, but the situation remains fragile.
International Reactions
The crisis in Bolivia has prompted condemnation throughout South America. The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, stated that no “violation of constitutional order” would be tolerated in Bolivia, expressing solidarity with President Arce from Asuncion, where the organization’s general assembly is being held.
Honduran President Xiomara Castro, current president of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), urged members to “condemn the fascism that is attacking democracy in Bolivia today” and to demand full respect for civilian power and the Constitution.
In Europe, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called for “respect for democracy and the rule of law” in Bolivia. Meanwhile, the White House indicated that they are closely monitoring the situation and called for “calm.”
The situation in Bolivia is volatile, and the international community is closely watching the developments. President Arce’s call for mobilization marks a turning point in this political crisis, and the coming days will be crucial for the future of democracy in the country.
Source: Lefigaro.fr
