By Abiola Olawale
Bolivia, a South American country witnessed another political crisis on Wednesday, as a top Army General in the country, General Juan José Zúñiga, led a group of armed soldiers to the National Palace in an attempt to take control of the government of President Luis Arce.
According to reports, the troops led by Zúñiga occupied the square in front of the government palace in La Paz with armoured vehicles and tried to breach the doors of the presidential villa.
However, the coup attempt was foiled as security agents took control of the situation and brought things under effective containment.
Zúñiga has also been arrested following the failed coup attempt.
A few hours after his arrest, the President said it was heartbreaking that a top general of the country would attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government.
Arce who spoke during a live televised address also announced new heads of the army, navy and Air Force, respectively.
He also appreciated the country’s police and regional allies for standing by him.
“Today the country is facing an attempted coup d’état,” he said in the address. “Once again the country is up against those who want democracy in Bolivia to be cut short.”
