- Two Bolivian army leaders arrested after troops and tanks surround government buildings.
- President Luis Arce denounces attempted coup as soldiers withdraw.
- Global condemnation follows brief upheaval in Bolivian capital.
Bolivia faced a brief period of tension as troops and tanks surrounded government buildings in Plaza Murillo on Wednesday, prompting the arrest of two army leaders in what President Luis Arce labeled as an attempted coup against democracy.
The dramatic events unfolded when soldiers and armored vehicles entered Plaza Murillo, the historic heart of Bolivia’s political institutions housing the presidency and Congress. One tank reportedly attempted to breach a metal door at the presidential palace, escalating fears of a coup d’état.
Dismissed army chief General Juan Jose Zuniga, flanked by soldiers and eight tanks, declared the military’s intent to “restructure democracy” during the tense standoff. Global condemnation swiftly followed, with international leaders and organizations condemning the attack on Bolivia’s democratic institutions.
After approximately five hours, soldiers and tanks withdrew from Plaza Murillo, signaling the end of the brief uprising. General Zuniga was later apprehended by authorities as he addressed reporters outside a military barracks, captured on state television.
President Arce, addressing supporters from the government palace balcony, reaffirmed Bolivia’s commitment to democracy. “No one can take away the democracy we have won,” Arce asserted, underscoring the resilience of Bolivia’s political system in the face of internal challenges.
The arrests of General Zuniga and Admiral Juan Arnez Salvador, head of the Bolivian navy, were announced by Interior Minister Eduardo del Castillo, condemning their actions as attempts to undermine Bolivia’s democratic foundations. The swift response by authorities aimed to restore calm and stability after the failed coup attempt rattled the nation briefly.
