Bolivia’s Presidential Palace Stormed by Soldiers in Apparent Coup Attempt
In a shocking turn of events, Bolivia’s presidential palace has been stormed by soldiers as President Luis Arce warned of an unfolding “coup”. Troops blocked off the entrances to La Paz’s Murillo Square, where key government buildings are located, before ramming the doors of the main government building and entering the premises.
Armoured vehicles and troops have taken up positions on the square, with President Arce urging Bolivians to mobilize against the coup d’etat. He emphasized the importance of respecting democracy and called on the people to organize in defense of their country.
The military officer in charge of the troops, General Juan José Zúñiga, stated that there would be a change of ministers and cabinet, signaling a shift in leadership. He claimed that the army intended to restore true democracy and free “political prisoners”, including jailed former leader Jeanine Áñez.
The apparent coup attempt has sparked international condemnation, with the US, EU, and Mexico expressing concern over the situation in Bolivia. President Andres Lopez Obrador of Mexico strongly condemned the attempted coup, while the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the importance of upholding the constitutional order.
The political turmoil in Bolivia stems from the 2019 election, which saw former president Evo Morales resign and be replaced by Jeanine Áñez. However, in a re-run of the election, Mr. Arce was elected, returning the Mas socialist party to power. The current situation remains fluid as the country grapples with uncertainty and unrest.
