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Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.
Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.
On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor."
She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-court-ruling-bars-ex-leader-morales-from-presidency-774796">Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency</a>
Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback.
Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States.
"I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote.
Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police.
<h2>'Climbing the political ladder' </h2>
A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term.
In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking.
They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter."
The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October.
Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence.
Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel &amp; Food Prices Skyrocket
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Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters.
Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest.
The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days.
<h2>Eyeing third term </h2>
Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters.
At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head.
The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint.
Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction.
Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later.
Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections.
In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations that he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.



Bolivia Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office. Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl. On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor." She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months. Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback. Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States. "I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote. Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police. 'Climbing the political ladder' A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term. In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking. They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter." The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October. Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel & Food Prices Skyrocket × Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters. Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest. The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days. Eyeing third term Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters. At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head. The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint. Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction. Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later. Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections. In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bolivian ex-prez slams 'brutal judicial war' after arrest warrant issued against him in sexual abuse case

Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.

Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.

On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor."

She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-court-ruling-bars-ex-leader-morales-from-presidency-774796">Also read:&nbsp;Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency</a>

Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback.

Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States.

"I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote.

Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police.

<h2>'Climbing the political ladder'&nbsp;</h2>

A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term.

In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking.

They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter."

The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October.

Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence.

Watch |&nbsp;Bolivians Struggle As Fuel &amp; Food Prices Skyrocket

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Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters.

Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest.

The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days.

<h2>Eyeing third term&nbsp;</h2>

Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters.

At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head.

The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint.

Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction.

Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later.

Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections.

In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.

Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office. Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl. On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor." She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months. Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback. Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States. "I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote. Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police. 'Climbing the political ladder' A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term. In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking. They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter." The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October. Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel & Food Prices Skyrocket × Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters. Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest. The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days. Eyeing third term Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters. At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head. The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint. Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction. Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later. Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections. In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bolivia, once a leading natural gas producer in South America, is now grappling with a severe fuel shortage. Diesel and gasoline lines stretch for kilometers, with drivers waiting for days to secure just a few gallons. The shortage has disrupted daily life, halted farm production, and sent food prices soaring. Watch in for more details!

Bolivians Struggle As Fuel & Food Prices Skyrocket

Bolivia's constitutional court has barred former leader Evo Morales from standing for re-election next year, after reaffirming that a president cannot serve more than two terms.

In a ruling made public on Friday, which upholds a 2023 decision, the high court said the mandate of an elected official is "only for two periods, whether consecutive or not, without the possibility of extending it to a third term."

Bolivia's first Indigenous president, Morales led the country from 2006 to 2019 and was extremely popular until he tried to bypass the constitution and seek a fourth term.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-dutch-leader-calls-amsterdam-attack-on-israelis-totally-unacceptable-774794">Far-right Dutch leader calls Amsterdam attack on Israelis 'totally unacceptable'</a>

The leftist won that vote but was forced to resign in 2019 amid deadly protests over alleged election fraud, and fled the country.

He returned after his former ally Luis Arce won the presidency in 2020, but since then the two men have struggled for power over the ruling party.

The ruling announced Friday came in response to a request from a parliamentarian who asked the constitutional court to clear up doubts about its December 2023 decision.

It also comes about a month into protests by Morales's supporters, who have blocked roads, taken soldiers hostage and called for Arce to resign.&nbsp;

The protests began on October 14 after prosecutors charged Morales with statutory rape over his alleged relationship with a 15-year-old girl while in office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fema-official-directed-aid-workers-to-avoid-houses-with-trump-signs-suspended-reports-774755">FEMA official directed aid workers to avoid houses with Trump signs, suspended: Report</a>

He denies the charges, saying they were brought by Arce's government to prevent him from making a political comeback.&nbsp;

The 65-year-old Indigenous leader has not commented on the latest court decision but says he is eligible to run and the Arce government is blocking his candidacy.

Bolivia will hold its next presidential election in August 2025.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bolivia's constitutional court has barred former leader Evo Morales from standing for re-election next year, after reaffirming that a president cannot serve more than two terms.

Bolivia's constitutional court has barred former leader Evo Morales from standing for re-election next year, after reaffirming that a president cannot serve more than two terms. In a ruling made public on Friday, which upholds a 2023 decision, the high court said the mandate of an elected official is "only for two periods, whether consecutive or not, without the possibility of extending it to a third term." Bolivia's first Indigenous president, Morales led the country from 2006 to 2019 and was extremely popular until he tried to bypass the constitution and seek a fourth term. Also read | Far-right Dutch leader calls Amsterdam attack on Israelis 'totally unacceptable' The leftist won that vote but was forced to resign in 2019 amid deadly protests over alleged election fraud, and fled the country. He returned after his former ally Luis Arce won the presidency in 2020, but since then the two men have struggled for power over the ruling party. The ruling announced Friday came in response to a request from a parliamentarian who asked the constitutional court to clear up doubts about its December 2023 decision. It also comes about a month into protests by Morales's supporters, who have blocked roads, taken soldiers hostage and called for Arce to resign. The protests began on October 14 after prosecutors charged Morales with statutory rape over his alleged relationship with a 15-year-old girl while in office. Also read | FEMA official directed aid workers to avoid houses with Trump signs, suspended: Report He denies the charges, saying they were brought by Arce's government to prevent him from making a political comeback. The 65-year-old Indigenous leader has not commented on the latest court decision but says he is eligible to run and the Arce government is blocking his candidacy. Bolivia will hold its next presidential election in August 2025. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency

As tension between police and people blocking roads in Bolivia, former president Evo Morales called for a dialogue with the government on Friday (November 1).

Bolivia Standoff Escalates: Morales Wants To Challenge President Arce

As tension between police and people blocking roads in Bolivia, former president Evo Morales called for a dialogue with the government on Friday (November 1).

During a live transmission, Morales said he would launch a hunger strike until talks between the two sides began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-another-425-million-aid-to-ukraine-amid-north-korean-troops-in-russia-772708">US announces another $425 million aid to Ukraine, amid North Korean troops in Russia</a>

Earlier on Friday, incumbent President Luis Arce accused followers of Morales of being behind an armed takeover of military posts and holding soldiers hostage. Morales did not respond to these accusations.

In the central department of Cochabamba, police and military attempted to clear a weeks-long highway blockade by Morales supporters strangling traffic.

Protesters retaliated by launching dynamite at them from nearby hills, with police then launching tear gas.

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Morales' followers set up road blockades in mid-October in support of him, pressuring for a criminal investigation into the former president for alleged abuse of a minor to be dropped. Morales has argued the investigation is politically motivated.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

As tension between police and people blocking roads in Bolivia, former president Evo Morales called for a dialogue with the government on Friday (November 1). During a live transmission, Morales said he would launch a hunger strike until talks between the two sides began.

As tension between police and people blocking roads in Bolivia, former president Evo Morales called for a dialogue with the government on Friday (November 1). During a live transmission, Morales said he would launch a hunger strike until talks between the two sides began. Also read | US announces another $425 million aid to Ukraine, amid North Korean troops in Russia Earlier on Friday, incumbent President Luis Arce accused followers of Morales of being behind an armed takeover of military posts and holding soldiers hostage. Morales did not respond to these accusations. In the central department of Cochabamba, police and military attempted to clear a weeks-long highway blockade by Morales supporters strangling traffic. Protesters retaliated by launching dynamite at them from nearby hills, with police then launching tear gas. Also read | Two dead, 6 injured in shooting at downtown Orlando amid Halloween celebration, suspect caught on cam Morales' followers set up road blockades in mid-October in support of him, pressuring for a criminal investigation into the former president for alleged abuse of a minor to be dropped. Morales has argued the investigation is politically motivated. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ex-Bolivia President Evo Morales announces hunger strike after supporters take 20 soldiers hostage

Supporters of former President Evo Morales clashed with police in Bolivia as protests against government policies intensified. Demonstrators have established blockades across key roads, demanding action on issues such as economic reforms and social justice. The confrontations highlight ongoing political tensions in the country, with Morales' supporters pushing back against what they perceive as government repression while calling for greater representation and change.

Bolivia: Morales' Supporters Clash With Police As Blockade Continues

Evo Morales, former president of Bolivia, has survived an assassination attempt following a shooting incident. He alleges that the attack is part of a broader conspiracy against him, raising alarms about political violence and instability in the country.

Bolivia: Ex-President Evo Morales Survives Shooting, Alleges Assassination Plot

Bolivia's government on Monday accused former president Evo Morales of falsely claiming he was the victim of a state-backed assassination attempt, saying police fired on his vehicle after he ran a highway checkpoint.

Morales, who is engaged in a tense stand-off with his former ally-turned-rival President Luis Arce, said his car was riddled with bullets Sunday by assailants with their faces covered while he was travelling to an interview in the city of Cochabamba.

He said his driver was wounded, but he was unharmed and that the car had 14 bullet holes.

The incident marked a dramatic escalation in the weeks-long stand-off between Morales and Arce, whose government has accused Morales of raping a teen member of his political youth guard while he was president.

A video shared by Morales on social media taken from inside the vehicle showed three bullet holes in the windshield, more in the shattered rear window, and the driver with blood on his head.&nbsp;

A woman in the back seat can be heard screaming to Morales in the front passenger seat to "duck, president, duck" and urging the driver to accelerate.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:333,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2018}">'Theater'</h2>

On Monday, Interior Minister Eduardo del Castillo dismissed Morales' claim to have been the target of an assassination attempt.

Del Castillo said the car in which Morales was travelling failed to stop at a checkpoint set up by police to combat drug trafficking in central Chapare province, one of Bolivia's biggest producers of coca, the raw material for cocaine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:495,&quot;w&quot;:483,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2180}" data-ved="2ahUKEwjfpe7NxrKJAxVwSGwGHb4iMzkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-former-president-morales-says-his-vehicle-was-hit-by-gunfire-771233" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-former-president-morales-says-his-vehicle-was-hit-by-gunfire-771233&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfpe7NxrKJAxVwSGwGHb4iMzkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Bolivia former president Morales says his vehicle was hit by gunfire</a>

Del Castillo said police motioned for the approaching vehicle to slow down but the driver ignored the order.

"Rather than slow down, they speed up, take out guns" and "shoot from inside a car" at police, the minister said.

Del Castillo said an officer was run over but survived before a police patrol gave chase to Morales's car and fired on it.

Labelling Morales' account of events as "theatre" he said the 65-year-old Indigenous ex-president would "have to answer... for the crime of attempted murder" of a police officer.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:712,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2397}">'This was planned'&nbsp;</h2>

The incident was expected to add to tensions in the Cochabamba region, where supporters of Morales have been blocking roads for two weeks to try prevent Morales' possible arrest.

"This was planned. The idea was to kill Evo," Morales said Sunday.

"Lucho has destroyed Bolivia and now he wants to eliminate our process by killing Evo," Morales, using the president's nickname, said of his own attempt to regain the presidency.

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The attack happened outside a military barracks in Cochabamba and that men dressed in black opened fire with rifles at his truck, his MAS party said in a statement.

Bolivia's army denied any involvement and called on Morales' supporters to remain calm after they threatened to take over the barracks.

Arce, writing on X, said that he had ordered "an immediate and thorough investigation to clarify the facts" surrounding what he called "the alleged attack" on Morales.

"Any violent practice in politics must be condemned and clarified," Arce added.

Morales has filed a complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, based in Costa Rica, formally accusing "government agents" of trying to assassinate him.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1123,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2808}">Former coca grower</h2>

Morales, a former coca grower who was Bolivia's first Indigenous president, was highly popular in the Andean country until he tried to bypass the constitution to seek a fourth term.

He was forced to resign after losing the support of the military following an election marked by allegations of fraud, and fled to Mexico.&nbsp;

He returned to Bolivia in 2020 seeking political resurrection.

He and Arce are both vying for the nomination of the ruling MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections, although Morales is legally barred from running again.

He is being investigated for rape, human trafficking and human smuggling over his alleged sexual relationship with a 15-year-old supporter in 2015.&nbsp;

The girl had a child in 2016, whom prosecutors say Morales fathered. He has called the claims "a lie".

Arce on Saturday overhauled the military leadership as part of what he called a drive to restore order.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Bolivia's government on Monday accused former president Evo Morales of falsely claiming he was the victim of a state-backed assassination attempt, saying police fired on his vehicle after he ran a highway checkpoint.

Bolivia's government on Monday accused former president Evo Morales of falsely claiming he was the victim of a state-backed assassination attempt, saying police fired on his vehicle after he ran a highway checkpoint. Morales, who is engaged in a tense stand-off with his former ally-turned-rival President Luis Arce, said his car was riddled with bullets Sunday by assailants with their faces covered while he was travelling to an interview in the city of Cochabamba. He said his driver was wounded, but he was unharmed and that the car had 14 bullet holes. The incident marked a dramatic escalation in the weeks-long stand-off between Morales and Arce, whose government has accused Morales of raping a teen member of his political youth guard while he was president. A video shared by Morales on social media taken from inside the vehicle showed three bullet holes in the windshield, more in the shattered rear window, and the driver with blood on his head. A woman in the back seat can be heard screaming to Morales in the front passenger seat to "duck, president, duck" and urging the driver to accelerate. 'Theater' On Monday, Interior Minister Eduardo del Castillo dismissed Morales' claim to have been the target of an assassination attempt. Del Castillo said the car in which Morales was travelling failed to stop at a checkpoint set up by police to combat drug trafficking in central Chapare province, one of Bolivia's biggest producers of coca, the raw material for cocaine. Also read | Bolivia former president Morales says his vehicle was hit by gunfire Del Castillo said police motioned for the approaching vehicle to slow down but the driver ignored the order. "Rather than slow down, they speed up, take out guns" and "shoot from inside a car" at police, the minister said. Del Castillo said an officer was run over but survived before a police patrol gave chase to Morales's car and fired on it. Labelling Morales' account of events as "theatre" he said the 65-year-old Indigenous ex-president would "have to answer... for the crime of attempted murder" of a police officer. 'This was planned' The incident was expected to add to tensions in the Cochabamba region, where supporters of Morales have been blocking roads for two weeks to try prevent Morales' possible arrest. "This was planned. The idea was to kill Evo," Morales said Sunday. "Lucho has destroyed Bolivia and now he wants to eliminate our process by killing Evo," Morales, using the president's nickname, said of his own attempt to regain the presidency. Also read | Israeli parliament bans UNRWA, claims UN aid agency has 'deep connection' with Hamas The attack happened outside a military barracks in Cochabamba and that men dressed in black opened fire with rifles at his truck, his MAS party said in a statement. Bolivia's army denied any involvement and called on Morales' supporters to remain calm after they threatened to take over the barracks. Arce, writing on X, said that he had ordered "an immediate and thorough investigation to clarify the facts" surrounding what he called "the alleged attack" on Morales. "Any violent practice in politics must be condemned and clarified," Arce added. Morales has filed a complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, based in Costa Rica, formally accusing "government agents" of trying to assassinate him. Former coca grower Morales, a former coca grower who was Bolivia's first Indigenous president, was highly popular in the Andean country until he tried to bypass the constitution to seek a fourth term. He was forced to resign after losing the support of the military following an election marked by allegations of fraud, and fled to Mexico. He returned to Bolivia in 2020 seeking political resurrection. He and Arce are both vying for the nomination of the ruling MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections, although Morales is legally barred from running again. He is being investigated for rape, human trafficking and human smuggling over his alleged sexual relationship with a 15-year-old supporter in 2015. The girl had a child in 2016, whom prosecutors say Morales fathered. He has called the claims "a lie". Arce on Saturday overhauled the military leadership as part of what he called a drive to restore order. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bolivian government ridicules Morales' assassination plot claims as 'theatre'

Supporters of former Bolivian president Evo Morales have clashed with police after a prosecutor said she would order his arrest. Morales, who governed Bolivia from 2006 to 2019, is under investigation for alleged statutory rape and human trafficking, which he denies.

Bolivia: Evo Morales Faces Potential Arrest Over Child Sex Abuse Charges

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday. Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute.

Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/spain-enter-nations-league-quarterfinals-ronaldos-portugal-held-by-scotland-767840">Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland</a>

Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julian Alvarez to score. Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance.

Copa America winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday. Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute. Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross. Also read: Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julian Alvarez to score. Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance. Copa America winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi's hat-trick leads Argentina to 6-0 win over Bolivia in FIFA WC qualifiers

Wildfires in Bolivia have burned through more than 10 million hectares this year, mostly in the country's tropical east, smashing records for its worst-ever fire season and scorching an area the size of Iceland or Cuba. Watch in for more details!

Bolivia's Agriculture In Peril Due To Fires

The tense situation in Bolivia shows every sign of escalating and two leaders in a struggle for power have put the country in turmoil. Once the current President's mentor and his predecessor Evo Morales has given a 24hour deadline to the incumbent president to change his cabinet but Luis Arce is asking his mentor to respect the Constitution. Watch in for more details!

Bolivia: Former President Morales Gives Luis Arce 24 Hours To Change Cabinet

Bolivia is witnessing the beginning of a power struggle and at the receiving end of growing protest is incumbent President Luis Arce. Watch in for more details!

Bolivia: Indigenous Bolivians march to capital, urge Luis Arce to resign

The Amazon rainforest has been ravaged by wildfires, blanketing vast regions of Brazil, Bolivia, and Ecuador in thick smoke.

Forest Fire: Out of control fire ravages Ecuador's forests

Brazilian firefighters are tackling a large forest fire with their Bolivian counterparts, as it continues to burn in the country's Santa Cruz department. The blaze, which is one of the largest the country has experienced this year has burned about 3.8 million hectares of land in the San Jose Chiquitos area.

Brazilian firefighters support firefighters in Bolivia

Bolivia declared a national emergency due to raging forest fires the country's defense ministry announced on Saturday. In a press conference, defense minister Edmundo Novillo said the national emergency would allow the country to quickly coordinate international support.

Bolivia Wildfires: Country's Defence Minister calls national emergency

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday. Liverpool midfielder Mac Allister swept in a low finish three minutes after half-time to break the deadlock at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against a defensive Chile side.

Former Manchester City striker Alvarez doubled the lead in the 84th minute with a thumping shot from outside the area before substitute Dybala put the seal on the victory with a late strike in stoppage time. It was another clinical victory for the reigning world champions, who are now cruising towards confirming their place at the 2026 finals being staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Lionel Scaloni's team lead South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying table by five points after seven games. The top six teams in the final standings qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America with the seventh-placed team advancing to a playoff.

Argentina, who also beat Chile 1-0 on their way to clinching back-to-back Copa America titles earlier this year, went into Thursday's game missing injured captain Lionel Messi and veteran winger Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football after the Copa America triumph in July.

Di Maria was feted by his former teammates at a pre-game ceremony before taking his place in the stands to watch the world champions secure their sixth win from seven qualifying games. Despite the absence of Messi and Di Maria, Argentina had plenty of creative guile in attack with Lautaro Martinez and Atletico Madrid's Alvarez causing problems for the Chile defense.

Argentina, meanwhile, controlled midfield with Mac Allister lining up alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez. After a cagey first-half, the breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Alvarez whipped in a low cross from the right.

Martinez dummied cleverly and allowed the ball to roll through to Mac Allister, who guided an accurate shot into the bottom corner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-winners-spain-held-in-nations-league-ronaldo-scores-900th-goal-during-portugals-win-over-croatia-756283">Euro winners Spain held in Nations League, Ronaldo scores 900th goal during Portugal's win over Croatia</a>

<h2>- Bolivia thrash Venezuela -</h2>

In Thursday's other qualifier, Bolivia reignited their campaign with a 4-0 drubbing over Venezuela in a game played more than 4,000m (13,100 feet) above sea level. Goals from Ramiro Vaca, Carmelo Algaranaz, Miguel Terceros and Enzo Monteiro handed Bolivia only their second win of qualifying and lifted them into seventh place in the standings.

The result was a vindication of Bolivia's move to play Thursday's game in El Alto -- Spanish for "The Heights" -- rather than at their usual home venue in neighboring La Paz, which is 3,600m above sea level. The thin air of El Alto clearly left Venezuela's players struggling for energy against a Bolivian team aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since reaching the 1994 finals in the United States.

Despite his team's heavy loss, Venezuela coach Fernando Batista refused to dwell on the altitude issue after the game. "Out of 10 questions, eight are about altitude," Batista said. "You won't hear anything from me about it."

The pick of Bolivia's goals came from Vaca after just 13 minutes. The 25-year-old midfielder gathered the ball around 30 yards from goal, cut in from the left and unleashed a ferocious shot which flew into the top corner.

Venezuela, the only team from South America never to have qualified for a World Cup, remain well-placed to reach the finals despite Thursday's loss. The 'Vinotinto' are fourth in the standings with nine points from seven games, trailing Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia.

Venezuela host Uruguay next Tuesday in their eighth game of qualifying.&nbsp;South America's qualifiers continue on Friday with second-placed Uruguay hosting Paraguay in Montevideo while struggling Brazil, who are 11 points adrift of leaders Argentina in sixth, face Ecuador in Curitiba.

Third-placed Colombia, meanwhile, travel to Lima to face bottom-of-the-table Peru.

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday.

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday. Liverpool midfielder Mac Allister swept in a low finish three minutes after half-time to break the deadlock at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against a defensive Chile side. Former Manchester City striker Alvarez doubled the lead in the 84th minute with a thumping shot from outside the area before substitute Dybala put the seal on the victory with a late strike in stoppage time. It was another clinical victory for the reigning world champions, who are now cruising towards confirming their place at the 2026 finals being staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Lionel Scaloni's team lead South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying table by five points after seven games. The top six teams in the final standings qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America with the seventh-placed team advancing to a playoff. Argentina, who also beat Chile 1-0 on their way to clinching back-to-back Copa America titles earlier this year, went into Thursday's game missing injured captain Lionel Messi and veteran winger Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football after the Copa America triumph in July. Di Maria was feted by his former teammates at a pre-game ceremony before taking his place in the stands to watch the world champions secure their sixth win from seven qualifying games. Despite the absence of Messi and Di Maria, Argentina had plenty of creative guile in attack with Lautaro Martinez and Atletico Madrid's Alvarez causing problems for the Chile defense. Argentina, meanwhile, controlled midfield with Mac Allister lining up alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez. After a cagey first-half, the breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Alvarez whipped in a low cross from the right. Martinez dummied cleverly and allowed the ball to roll through to Mac Allister, who guided an accurate shot into the bottom corner. Also read: Euro winners Spain held in Nations League, Ronaldo scores 900th goal during Portugal's win over Croatia - Bolivia thrash Venezuela - In Thursday's other qualifier, Bolivia reignited their campaign with a 4-0 drubbing over Venezuela in a game played more than 4,000m (13,100 feet) above sea level. Goals from Ramiro Vaca, Carmelo Algaranaz, Miguel Terceros and Enzo Monteiro handed Bolivia only their second win of qualifying and lifted them into seventh place in the standings. The result was a vindication of Bolivia's move to play Thursday's game in El Alto -- Spanish for "The Heights" -- rather than at their usual home venue in neighboring La Paz, which is 3,600m above sea level. The thin air of El Alto clearly left Venezuela's players struggling for energy against a Bolivian team aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since reaching the 1994 finals in the United States. Despite his team's heavy loss, Venezuela coach Fernando Batista refused to dwell on the altitude issue after the game. "Out of 10 questions, eight are about altitude," Batista said. "You won't hear anything from me about it." The pick of Bolivia's goals came from Vaca after just 13 minutes. The 25-year-old midfielder gathered the ball around 30 yards from goal, cut in from the left and unleashed a ferocious shot which flew into the top corner. Venezuela, the only team from South America never to have qualified for a World Cup, remain well-placed to reach the finals despite Thursday's loss. The 'Vinotinto' are fourth in the standings with nine points from seven games, trailing Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia. Venezuela host Uruguay next Tuesday in their eighth game of qualifying. South America's qualifiers continue on Friday with second-placed Uruguay hosting Paraguay in Montevideo while struggling Brazil, who are 11 points adrift of leaders Argentina in sixth, face Ecuador in Curitiba. Third-placed Colombia, meanwhile, travel to Lima to face bottom-of-the-table Peru.

Argentina ease past Chile, Bolivia humble Venezuela in World Cup qualifiers

In Bolivia's lowland region of Santa Cruz, farmer Mario Guasasi packed up his belongings this week, putting mattresses, food, and bed frames into a truck in a bid to escape rapidly approaching fires that are among the worst the country has seen.

Bolivia wildfires: Farmers pack up and flee as wildfires burn forest

At least 14 people were killed and 18 injured in a bus crash in southern Bolivia, police said Saturday.

The accident occurred on Friday night, when a bus swerved and crashed into a cliff on a busy road connecting the city of Tarija, about 880 kilometers (546 miles) south of the capital La Paz, with the central city of Santa Cruz.

One survivor told the Tarija Conecta news outlet it appeared that the vehicle's brakes had failed.

Tarija police chief Jose Illanes said 14 people died at the scene and 18 received treatment for injuries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-faces-rising-claims-for-covid-19-vaccine-damages-over-14000-seek-compensation-751001">UK faces claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation</a>

According to government data, road accidents kill about 1,400 people on average every year in Bolivia, a country of about 12 million people.&nbsp;

Most accidents are due to driver error or mechanical failures.

Last month, 22 people died and 16 were injured in western Bolivia when a truck and bus collided head-on.

A similar accident in April claimed 14 lives.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

At least 14 people were killed and 18 injured in a bus crash in southern Bolivia, police said Saturday. The accident occurred on Friday night, when a bus swerved and crashed into a cliff on a busy road connecting the city of Tarija, about 880 kilometers (546 miles) south of the capital La Paz, with the central city of Santa Cruz.

At least 14 people were killed and 18 injured in a bus crash in southern Bolivia, police said Saturday. The accident occurred on Friday night, when a bus swerved and crashed into a cliff on a busy road connecting the city of Tarija, about 880 kilometers (546 miles) south of the capital La Paz, with the central city of Santa Cruz. One survivor told the Tarija Conecta news outlet it appeared that the vehicle's brakes had failed. Tarija police chief Jose Illanes said 14 people died at the scene and 18 received treatment for injuries. Also read: UK faces claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation According to government data, road accidents kill about 1,400 people on average every year in Bolivia, a country of about 12 million people. Most accidents are due to driver error or mechanical failures. Last month, 22 people died and 16 were injured in western Bolivia when a truck and bus collided head-on. A similar accident in April claimed 14 lives. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Southern Bolivia bus crash claims 14 lives, 18 injured

Deadly Kenyan protests that scuppered tax hikes and a failed coup amid fading economic prospects in Bolivia this week are violent reminders of the dangers posed by faltering economies and punishing austerity measures. Watch in for more details!

Economic ills fuel deadly protests Kenya, Bolivia's failed coup

Three leaders, including the former Bolivian general, who have been accused of leading the failed coup against Bolivian President Luis Arce were remanded in custody, on Friday (Jun 28), said the country’s top prosecutor. According to&nbsp;Arce, the detained former Bolivian general Juan Jose Zuniga had planned to “take over” the government and become the president if the coup was successful. &nbsp;

<h2>Who all are&nbsp;remanded in custody?</h2>

In addition to the former army chief, ex-head of navy Juan Arnez and Alejandro Irahola, former head of the army’s mechanised brigade will also be held in a high-security prison near the city of La Paz, reported AFP.&nbsp;

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State Attorney General Cesar Siles said that the AG’s office had requested the six-month detention, a move which was supported&nbsp;by other government bodies, including the country’s defence ministry and interior ministry “due to the importance and seriousness of the events that occurred.”&nbsp;

“This pre-trial detention ordered by the judge will undoubtedly set a precedent, and is a good signal for the investigation to move forward,” said Siles on state television, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

The former military officers face charges of engaging in an armed uprising and terrorism and face up to 20 years in prison.&nbsp;

According to Siles, Zuniga has been handed a terrorism charge, which carries 15 to 20 years in prison as well as a charge for an armed uprising, which carries a sentence of 5-15 years.

A total of 21 active, retired and civilian military personnel were arrested in connection with the attempted coup, on Wednesday (Jun 26) which saw the deployment of troops and tanks in the heart of the capital as they tried to break down a door of the presidential palace.&nbsp;

<h2>Zuniga’s plan to ‘take over’</h2>

In an interview with the Associated Press, the embattled Bolivian president spoke about the former general’s plans to “take over” and become the country’s leader had he been successful in his attempted coup.&nbsp;

He denied that the attack on Wednesday was a “self-coup” designed to garner him political points. “I didn’t escape. I stayed to defend democracy,” Arce told&nbsp;AP.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coup-attempt-in-bolivia-fails-police-arrest-the-mastermind-735494">Coup attempt in Bolivia fails, mastermind arrested</a>

This comes after Zuniga claimed he was following the Bolivian president’s orders and that Arce had hoped for the coup to trigger a crackdown which would boost his popularity.&nbsp;

Arce also told news agency AP that his government was already being “politically attacked” by his one-time ally turned rival, former President Evo Morales and that the infighting had affected legislative activities and hamstrung his government in confronting economic problems.

In recent weeks, the Andean nation has witnessed a rise in tensions over surging prices, shortages of dollars and fuel, and a feud between Arce and Morales ahead of the 2025 election.

The incumbent president told AP that his government “has taken action” to address intermittent gasoline, dollar shortages, and other issues that the country’s economy faces, but denied that the Andean nation was in the midst of an economic crisis.

Arce also said that the government was investigating if the attack was organised by the country’s political opposition.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Three leaders, including the former Bolivian general, who have been accused of leading the failed coup against Bolivian President Luis Arce were remanded in custody, on Friday (Jun 28), said the country’s top prosecutor.

Three leaders, including the former Bolivian general, who have been accused of leading the failed coup against Bolivian President Luis Arce were remanded in custody, on Friday (Jun 28), said the country’s top prosecutor. According to Arce, the detained former Bolivian general Juan Jose Zuniga had planned to “take over” the government and become the president if the coup was successful. Who all are remanded in custody? In addition to the former army chief, ex-head of navy Juan Arnez and Alejandro Irahola, former head of the army’s mechanised brigade will also be held in a high-security prison near the city of La Paz, reported AFP. State Attorney General Cesar Siles said that the AG’s office had requested the six-month detention, a move which was supported by other government bodies, including the country’s defence ministry and interior ministry “due to the importance and seriousness of the events that occurred.” “This pre-trial detention ordered by the judge will undoubtedly set a precedent, and is a good signal for the investigation to move forward,” said Siles on state television, as quoted by AFP. The former military officers face charges of engaging in an armed uprising and terrorism and face up to 20 years in prison. According to Siles, Zuniga has been handed a terrorism charge, which carries 15 to 20 years in prison as well as a charge for an armed uprising, which carries a sentence of 5-15 years. A total of 21 active, retired and civilian military personnel were arrested in connection with the attempted coup, on Wednesday (Jun 26) which saw the deployment of troops and tanks in the heart of the capital as they tried to break down a door of the presidential palace. Zuniga’s plan to ‘take over’ In an interview with the Associated Press, the embattled Bolivian president spoke about the former general’s plans to “take over” and become the country’s leader had he been successful in his attempted coup. He denied that the attack on Wednesday was a “self-coup” designed to garner him political points. “I didn’t escape. I stayed to defend democracy,” Arce told AP. Also Read | Coup attempt in Bolivia fails, mastermind arrested This comes after Zuniga claimed he was following the Bolivian president’s orders and that Arce had hoped for the coup to trigger a crackdown which would boost his popularity. Arce also told news agency AP that his government was already being “politically attacked” by his one-time ally turned rival, former President Evo Morales and that the infighting had affected legislative activities and hamstrung his government in confronting economic problems. In recent weeks, the Andean nation has witnessed a rise in tensions over surging prices, shortages of dollars and fuel, and a feud between Arce and Morales ahead of the 2025 election. The incumbent president told AP that his government “has taken action” to address intermittent gasoline, dollar shortages, and other issues that the country’s economy faces, but denied that the Andean nation was in the midst of an economic crisis. Arce also said that the government was investigating if the attack was organised by the country’s political opposition. (With inputs from agencies)

Bolivian general, other suspected leaders of failed coup get six months pre-trial detention

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