Bolivia: Ex-president Beschoten, Praat Van Moordpoging
La Paz, Bolivia - Former Bolivian President Jeanine Áñez was the target of a shooting incident on Saturday, March 25th, 2023, while being transported to a women's prison in La Paz. The incident, which authorities are investigating as a possible attempted murder, has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the safety of political prisoners in Bolivia.
The Incident
According to reports, Áñez was being escorted from a La Paz hospital to the Obrajes women's prison when shots were fired at her vehicle. The incident occurred near the Viacha toll booth on the outskirts of La Paz, with authorities immediately deploying security forces to the area. While the exact circumstances of the shooting are still under investigation, it has been confirmed that the former president was not injured in the incident.
Political Context
Áñez, a former senator, assumed the presidency in November 2019 after the resignation of Evo Morales following disputed elections. Her time in office was marked by political turmoil and social unrest, culminating in her arrest in March 2021 on charges of sedition and terrorism.
Her supporters have long alleged that she was a victim of a politically motivated prosecution, aiming to silence opposition voices. Since her arrest, Áñez has remained in pre-trial detention, with her defense team arguing that she was merely fulfilling her constitutional duty in the absence of a legitimate president.
The Aftermath
The shooting incident has triggered widespread condemnation and calls for investigations into the incident. Many have expressed concern that the incident represents a dangerous escalation of political tensions in Bolivia.
The Bolivian government has condemned the incident and launched a full investigation, vowing to bring those responsible to justice. However, the incident has raised serious questions about the security of political prisoners and the potential for further violence in the context of Bolivia's ongoing political divide.
International Reactions
The incident has also drawn international attention, with various organizations and governments expressing concern over the safety of Áñez and other political prisoners in Bolivia.
The Organization of American States (OAS) called for a prompt and impartial investigation, while the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) expressed its deep concern over the incident.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging Bolivian authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all political prisoners and to uphold the rule of law.
Conclusion
The shooting incident aimed at Jeanine Áñez underscores the volatile political environment in Bolivia and raises serious concerns about the safety of political prisoners. The incident has sparked international condemnation and calls for investigations, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing political crisis in the country. Only time will tell how this incident will impact the future of Bolivian politics.