Attempted Coup in Bolivia: President Denounces Irregular Military Mobilization in La Paz

 Political Tension in Bolivia After Troop Deployment in Plaza Murillo

The President of Bolivia, Luis Arce, denounced on Wednesday an “irregular mobilization” of military units in the capital, La Paz, emphasizing the importance of respecting democracy. Footage disseminated by local media showed troops in Plaza Murillo, where the government palace is located, while the broadcaster Bolivia TV reported the entry of military personnel into the presidential palace.

General Juan José Zuñiga, dismissed as Army Chief on Tuesday, mentioned to the press “movements of all military units” due to the national situation. In contrast, former President Evo Morales warned of a possible coup d’état, describing a deployment of military personnel and vehicles in Plaza Murillo and a call for an emergency meeting at the Army General Staff in Miraflores.

In response to these events, the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, strongly condemned what occurred in Bolivia, stressing the need for the Army to be subordinate to legitimate civilian power. Almagro expressed solidarity with the Bolivian President, Arce Catacora, his government, and the Bolivian people, emphasizing that the OAS and the international community will not tolerate any violation of the constitutional order in Bolivia or anywhere else.

The situation in Bolivia is unfolding in a context of political tension, with allegations of destabilizing attempts by the opposition. Arce’s government has faced criticism for its handling of the economy and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the president has reiterated his commitment to democracy and has called for calm and dialogue to resolve differences.

It is crucial that democratic institutions and the rule of law are respected in Bolivia. The international community must be attentive to the evolution of events and work to promote stability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The Bolivian democracy has demonstrated its resilience in the past, and it is essential that it continues to do so in these challenging times.