Bolivia political crisis deepens over leaked audios of Fernando Cerimedo

Bolivian Vice President Edmand Lara has released several audio recordings allegedly involving Argentine political consultant Fernando Cerimedo. The leaks aim to demonstrate Cerimedo’s purported influence over the administration of President Rodrigo Paz Pereira.

One recording reportedly shows President Paz consulting Cerimedo on how to design and announce a state of exception. Other leaked conversations allegedly involve Cerimedo and Government Minister Marco Antonio Oviedo discussing the detention of protesters, as well as discussions with First Lady María Elena Urquidi regarding the replacement of the Police General Commander.

Cerimedo has been in custody in Bolivia since August following allegations of attempted femicide against his former partner, lawyer Nadia Beller. Beller claims the attack was an attempt to silence her regarding Cerimedo’s alleged disinformation operations. During searches of Cerimedo’s residence, authorities reportedly found significant cash and uncovered a digital bot farm structure. While the protagonists have rejected the veracity of the recordings, the leaks have intensified the political crisis in Bolivia.