However, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether Gen. Zuñiga’s military uprising was a unique episode or not.
Undoubtedly, the government appears more susceptible now, and others might attempt to topple Mr. Arce’s administration—albeit using political means as opposed to military force.
Mr. Morales urged his followers to come to the streets and demand a stop to the coup attempt, especially those involved in the nation’s indigenous coca-growers movement.
The plans of Gen. Zuiga, which included the release of “political prisoners” such as previous commander Jeanine Áñez, may have been strengthened in part by that demonstration of popular power.
Despite internal political rivalries, Mr. Arce and his predecessor are both members of the same political party. Some Bolivians, notably Gen. Zúñiga, are concerned that Mr. Morales may run for government again as a result of their alliance.
His attempt to circumvent the constitution and run for a fourth term in 2019 raised concerns. Despite going on to win the poll, Mr. Morales was compelled to step down and leave the nation due to violent protests.
Jeanine Áñez, a centrist, served as the nation’s acting leader from 2019 to 2020. However, she was convicted to 10 years in prison for orchestrating what the prosecution claims was a coup to remove her predecessor, Mr. Morales. In 2020, Mr. Arce, the president in office, prevailed in a rerun election.
