Supporters rally behind Bolivian president after failed coup

In a shocking turn of events, the South American nation of Bolivia, with a population of 12 million, witnessed military forces seemingly turning against President Luis Arce's government. Armored vehicles took control of the capital's main square, with a small tank repeatedly crashing into the presidential palace and tear gas being unleashed on protesters. Despite the chaos, there was a surge of public support for Arce, offering him a temporary respite from the country's economic and political challenges. Before his arrest, General Zúñiga accused Arce of orchestrating the coup attempt to boost his popularity, a claim made without evidence. Supporters gathered in La Paz's Plaza Murillo to show solidarity with Arce, dismissing Zúñiga's allegations as a setup. The situation escalated as Arce confronted Zúñiga, acknowledging some excesses but standing firm against any coup attempts. Bolivia has a history of over 190 coup attempts and revolutions since gaining independence in 1825, highlighting the fragility of its democracy. Former interim President Jeanine Áñez, currently detained for her role in the 2019 ousting of Morales, condemned the military's actions as an attempt to undermine the constitutional order. Questions arose about the authenticity of the coup attempt, with conflicting accounts from Zúñiga and Arce adding to the uncertainty. While there is no evidence of CIA involvement in the failed coup, the agency's past support for Latin American military regimes has raised concerns. The incident underscores Bolivia's ongoing political instability and the challenges it faces in maintaining democratic governance. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the attempted coup, the future remains uncertain, with calls for accountability and transparency echoing among its citizens and leaders.