Bolivians in shock after top general's attempted coup

Bolivia's capital La Paz is reeling in the wake of an attempted coup as troops led by a top general rammed the doors of the government palace in tumultous scenes that threatened to drag the South American democracy into chaos.

- JOE MIDDLETON

Military forces led by army chief General Juan Jose Zuniga appeared to take control of President Luis Arce’s government by seizing control of the city’s central square and unleashing teargas on protesters who flooded the streets. General Zuniga vowed to “restore democracy”, replace the cabinet and free political prisoners, but was condemned by opposition leaders as it became clear he had little political support.

Mr Arce refused to bow to the pressure and named a new army commander, who immediately ordered troops to stand down, ending the rebellion. The president’s supporters rapidly came to his aid and rushed to the square outside Quemado Palace, waving Bolivian flags, singing the national anthem and cheering.

Mr Arce said: “Here we are, firm, in the presidential palace, to confront any coup attempt.” General Zuniga and his alleged coconspirator, former navy vice-admiral Juan Arnez Salvador, were arrested by authorities. Government minister Eduardo del Castillo told journalists: “Their goal was to overturn the democratically elected authority.”