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Bolivia Arrests Political Adviser Linked to Right-Wing Leaders on Murder Plot Suspicion

From Al Jazeera · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Bolivia arrested Fernando Cerimedo, an adviser to prominent Latin American right-wing leaders, on suspicion of plotting a murder.
  • The arrest followed an attack on activist Nadia Beller, who believes she was targeted for opposing conservative reforms and corruption linked to Cerimedo.
  • Cerimedo, who worked on campaigns for leaders like Javier Milei and Jair Bolsonaro, was detained at a Bolivian airport attempting to leave the country.

Bolivian authorities have arrested Fernando Cerimedo, an Argentinian political adviser known for his work with several high-profile right-wing leaders across Latin America, on suspicion of plotting a murder. The arrest occurred Tuesday following a violent attack on lawyer and political activist Nadia Beller.

until I speak directly to the Bolivian people, they are going to finish what they attempted to do. They are going to end up taking my life

— Nadia BellerExpressing fear for her life following the attack.

Cerimedo, who has consulted for figures such as Argentina's President Javier Milei, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Bolivia's President Rodrigo Paz, was apprehended at a Santa Cruz airport as he attempted to depart for Argentina. Security footage captured Beller being shot at close range by two assailants disguised as delivery drivers outside a hotel.

Beller, who is four weeks pregnant, stated she believes the attack was retaliation for her opposition to unconstitutional laws under Decree 5503, which Cerimedo was allegedly preparing for the government. She also cited her awareness of high-level corruption as a potential motive. Decree 5503 reportedly introduces significant economic reforms, including the elimination of state fuel subsidies, reversing policies enacted under the previous socialist administration.

threatens life, democracy, and freedom of expression

— Edmand LaraDescribing the implications of the attack on Beller.

Adding a layer of complexity, Beller admitted to having had a romantic relationship with Cerimedo. From her hospital bed, she expressed fears that her life is in danger if she does not speak out directly to the Bolivian people. Bolivian Vice President Edmand Lara condemned the attack, calling it a threat to democracy and freedom of expression, and demanded an impartial investigation.

without any kind of favoritism

— Edmand LaraCalling for an impartial investigation into the attack.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Al Jazeera in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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