TOP OF THE AGENDA

Ousted general detained over coup attempt

The coming weeks will be key in establishing whether Gen Zuñiga's military insurrection was just an isolated incident. Credit: Reuters

The tree-lined Plaza Murillo in Bolivia's capital La Paz was the focus of dramatic scenes on Wednesday, when armoured vehicles took up positions around key government buildings. One military vehicle rammed the main gate of the presidential palace, allowing soldiers to enter. They were apparently acting on the orders of Gen Juan José Zúñiga, who said he wanted to “restructure democracy”. He had been removed from his role as army chief the previous day after making comments related to Bolivia's former president Evo Morales. There were no reports of serious injuries or deaths and the soldiers later withdrew. Gen Zúñiga was arrested, seconds after telling reporters the military had intervened at President Luis Arce request. The public prosecutor's office has opened a criminal investigation and the head of the Bolivian Navy has also been arrested.

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• In pictures: These images portray how a tumultuous day in Bolivian history unfolded.

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• From the archives: In 2022, former Bolivian President Jeanine Áñez was sentenced to 10 years in jail over what prosecutors say was a coup to oust her predecessor Evo Morales. 

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• Country profile: What you need to know about Bolivia's history and society.

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