An apparent coup attempt led by a top general in Bolivia saw armored vehicles storm the government palace, only to retreat after President Luis Arce stood firm. The soldiers were ordered to stand down, leading to the arrest of the army chief. The crisis unfolded amid political and economic turmoil in the country. The soldiers claimed they were seeking to “restore democracy” due to political infighting and an elite control over the country. The military rebellion lasted just three hours, with Arce’s supporters celebrating outside the palace after the soldiers retreated.
The incident was met with outrage from regional leaders and international organizations, with calls to condemn the coup attempt. Arce quickly announced new military chiefs and thanked the police and allies for standing by him. The political unrest in Bolivia has been ongoing, with tensions between Arce and former president Evo Morales over control of the ruling party. The country has faced severe economic challenges, leading to protests and uncertainty among the population.
Despite the chaos, Arce vowed to prevent future coup attempts, while the ex-army chief faces potential imprisonment for attacking democracy. The events in Bolivia set a precedent for the region, with concerns that the interruption of constitutional order could have broader implications. As the country grapples with political divisions and economic hardships, Bolivians are left anxious about the future, stocking up on essentials in anticipation of further turmoil.
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