Former President of Bolivia, Luis Arce, Arrested Amid Corruption Allegations
In a significant development in Bolivian politics, former President Luis Arce has been detained in the capital, La Paz. The government has accused him of engaging in corrupt practices during his tenure as economy minister, raising serious concerns about financial misconduct in the public sector.
Arce, who chose not to seek re-election in the recent August elections, previously served as Minister of Economy under President Evo Morales—a socialist leader who governed from 2006 until 2019. The 62-year-old Arce is facing allegations that he authorized questionable transfers from the state treasury to the private accounts of several political figures.
Among those implicated is Lidia Patty, a left-leaning former politician who was arrested last week in connection with the ongoing investigation. Reports suggest that she received nearly $100,000—equivalent to over 638,000 kroner—for a purported project aimed at tomato cultivation.
Prosecutor’s office sources indicate that Arce is charged with official neglect and financial impropriety. In a stern statement, Vice President Edmand Lara vowed that “everyone who has stolen from this country will pay back every single cent,” underscoring the government’s commitment to accountability.
The unfolding situation marks a significant moment in Bolivia’s political landscape, spotlighting issues of transparency and governance following years of political turmoil.
