La Paz, Bolivia – A Bolivian general was taken into custody on suspicion of leading a coup against the government after an attempt to breach the presidential palace unfolded on Wednesday. General Juan Jose Zuniga, who had been removed as commander of the Bolivian army just the day before, orchestrated military units to take over the main square in La Paz, with armored vehicles forcefully attempting to gain entry into the palace while soldiers tried to break into government offices.

President Luis Arce, who had urged the public to mobilize in defense of democracy, confronted Zuniga as he ordered the general to withdraw his troops. After Zuniga was arrested and placed into a police car, President Arce triumphantly saluted the crowds that had gathered at the presidential palace as a sign of overcoming the attempted coup. The government later announced that it had regained control of the military and urged the population to return to normalcy.

Bolivia, a country with a history of political instability, has been grappling with a severe economic crisis, triggering protests in recent months. The failed coup came amidst dwindling foreign currency reserves, shortages of basic necessities, and escalating social discontent. Zuniga alleged that he was following President Arce’s orders, a claim that was vehemently denied by the Justice Minister Ivan Lima.

As tensions escalated, the government launched a criminal investigation into Zuniga and all involved parties. In a bid to restore calm, President Arce appointed new military commanders, including Gen. José Sánchez, who ordered troops to return to their units, thereby diffusing the situation. The international community, along with regional leaders, condemned the attempted coup, emphasizing their support for democracy and the legitimate government of President Arce.

The incident in Bolivia reflects deep-rooted dissatisfaction among various sectors of society, with political rivalries intensifying as the country gears up for upcoming elections. While opposition lawmakers accused the government of orchestrating the coup to consolidate power, the Bolivian populace remains united against any attempt to subvert democracy. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments highlighting the fragile political landscape in Bolivia.