Bolivia ex-President Arce arrested, former minister says

Bolivian ex-President Luis Arce, who stepped down from office last month, has been arrested, according to a former member of his cabinet. Maria Nela Prada, who served as Minister to the Presidency under Arce, confirmed the news in a video message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.

Prada suggested that Arce may have been transferred to a prison outside of La Paz. However, the exact location of his detention remains unclear at this time.

Local media outlets have reported that the arrest is connected to an ongoing investigation into alleged embezzlement during Arce’s tenure as Economy Minister under former President Evo Morales.

Arce, who served as Bolivia's president from 2020 to 2025, is facing scrutiny over his financial dealings during his time in office. The investigation comes as part of a broader crackdown on corruption within the previous administration.

The arrest has shocked many Bolivians, as Arce was a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape. His government had positioned itself as a defender of Bolivia's economic growth, although allegations of corruption have plagued several members of his administration.

This is a developing story. Further details are expected as more information becomes available. -Daniel Ramos/Reuters