The former Bolivian president was arrested by order of the Prosecutor's Office as part of an investigation into the alleged embezzlement of millions in state funds
Luis Arce, former leftist president of Bolivia and a central figure in the ruling party that succeeded Evo Morales, was detained on Wednesday afternoon by security forces. The measure was carried out following an order issued by the Prosecutor's Office, which is investigating him in a corruption case.
Judicial sources confirmed that Arce was placed at the disposal of the Public Ministry, where he was notified of the preliminary charges.
A case of alleged multimillion-dollar embezzlement
According to information accessed by Infobae, Arce is involved in an alleged multimillion-dollar embezzlement scheme of public resources that were intended for the development of indigenous and peasant communities.
El ex presidente Luis Arce fue arrestado en Bolivia por un caso de corrupción millonario
The case file, according to official sources, reveals irregularities that arose during Evo Morales's government (2006-2019), a period in which Luis Arce served as Minister of Economy, one of the most influential positions in the cabinet. The investigation points to misappropriation, lack of oversight, and discretionary use of Bolivian State funds boliviano.
Background and political context
The case once again puts the structure for managing public funds during socialist governments in Bolivia under scrutiny. Arce, presented as the political heir to Morales's project, is once again linked to questions about opaque management, discretion, and lack of transparency.
The case also deepens the internal crisis of MAS, a party that has been experiencing tensions between different factions since before the 2020 elections.
What comes next in the case
After his detention, the Prosecutor's Office must decide the next procedural steps, including formal charges, the definition of precautionary measures, and the possible summoning of other former officials who also may have participated in the management of the funds under investigation.
Given the amount involved and the social sensitivity of the allegedly irregular program, the case is shaping up to be one of the most significant files of the year in Bolivia.
