Attempted Coup in Bolivia: President Arce Faces Unrest
Armed Conflict at the Government Palace

Armored vehicles rammed the doors of Bolivia’s government palace on Wednesday, marking what President Luis Arce described as an attempted coup. This uprising culminates months of growing tensions and economic crisis, with protesters flooding the capital as political rivals vie for control of the ruling party.

Lack of Support for the Uprising

Despite the dramatic actions, the attempted takeover seemed to lack significant support. Even Arce’s political adversaries quickly united to defend democracy and condemn the uprising.

Triggering Events

The uprising appeared to be led by General Commander of the Army Juan José Zúñiga, who suggested a new Cabinet was imminent due to the current state of the nation. Despite his statements, Zúñiga did not explicitly claim leadership of the uprising. Arce ordered Zúñiga to withdraw his soldiers and later dismissed him from his post.

Underlying Tensions

Bolivia’s economic struggles have intensified recently, with slow growth, rising inflation, and a scarcity of dollars. This stark change from the previous decade’s “economic miracle” has created widespread discontent. The economy, which grew over 4% annually in the 2010s, plummeted during the coronavirus pandemic and never fully recovered.

Arce, who was finance minister during the economic boom under former President Evo Morales, faced significant challenges upon assuming the presidency in 2020. The country’s diminished gas production exacerbated the economic decline, with the IMF forecasting a mere 1.6% growth this year.

Political infighting has further paralyzed the government’s efforts to address the economic crisis. Morales’ allies in Congress have consistently blocked Arce’s attempts to secure debt relief.

Historical Context

Bolivia has a long history of coups and revolutions, with over 190 attempts since its independence in 1825. This recent event is not the first in recent years. In 2019, Morales faced mass protests and allegations of election fraud, leading to his resignation and exile. Arce, Morales’s chosen successor, won the subsequent election with a promise to restore prosperity.

Political Power Struggle

Morales, having returned from exile, plans to run in the 2025 presidential race, challenging Arce for control of their party. This rivalry has stalled governmental progress and heightened social unrest. Analysts warn of potential explosive unrest due to the deepening economic crisis.

Despite their rivalry, both Arce and Morales denounced the coup attempt, as did former interim President Jeanine Áñez and leaders from neighboring countries and the EU. Chile’s President Gabriel Boric condemned the use of force by the army, emphasizing the importance of maintaining constitutional order.

Support for Arce

International and domestic power brokers, including leaders from Chile, Paraguay, Brazil, Ecuador, and the EU, have expressed support for Arce. Brian Winter of the Council of the Americas noted that despite Bolivia’s history of coups, significant global and domestic support aligns behind Arce.