Ex-Bolivian Army Chief Zúñiga Faces Trial, Accuses Arce of Political Maneuvering

Former Bolivian Army Commander Juan José Zúñiga has accused former President Luis Arce of orchestrating a "narrative" for political purposes, using the military and undermining its dignity. Zúñiga, currently under house arrest, made these statements during his trial for the military takeover attempt on June 26, 2024, at the La Paz Justice Tribunal.

Zúñiga claims the events, which he referred to as a "supposed coup d'état," were manufactured to allow the then-president to "victimise himself" and create a political advantage. He questioned the official version of what transpired on that day, asserting that "everything was forced" to generate a narrative favorable to the government.

The trial focuses on the testimonies of the accused. Lawyer Roger Valverde reported that five of the 22 defendants have given their statements, with the process continuing for the remaining individuals. The defense plans to request acquittals for their clients and anticipates the presentation of witnesses after the declarations conclude.

Lawyer Eduardo León, representing Zúñiga, noted that the Ministry of Defense has withdrawn from the proceedings, though this does not halt the trial. Zúñiga, considered a key figure in the events involving military units and armored vehicles at Murillo Square, faces charges related to the incident. The oral trial aims to establish individual responsibilities and determine if the actions constituted the crimes alleged by the prosecution.