Woman accuses Bolivian president of sexual harassment and abuse of power: Video
Bolivian President, Luis Arce is facing an allegation of sexual harassment and abuse of power, brought forward by Jessica Villarroel, a 24-year-old woman who claims to be one of multiple victims.
Hector Arce, a congressman loyal to former President Evo Morales, announced a criminal complaint against President Arce, stating that he misused his presidential position and state resources to exploit Villarroel.
According to Hector Arce, the allegations include a range of offences, such as abuse of authority, sexual harassment, psychological violence, and human trafficking.
"Mr. Lucho Arce has played with this woman's feelings, making false promises and engaging in a series of perverse actions," he asserted.
Jessica Villarroel detailed her experiences, indicating that she and President Arce had intimate relations and accusing him of subsequently blocking her when she confronted him about his alleged misconduct. She claims to be one of at least six victims silenced through the president's influence.
These allegations arise amid a fierce rivalry between President Arce and former President Morales over the ruling party's presidential nomination for the upcoming 2025 elections. Morales, who governed from 2006 to 2019, is currently under investigation for unrelated charges of sexual assault involving a minor.
President Arce, who is married with three children, has yet to publicly address the accusations.
Under Bolivian law, a president can be investigated by prosecutors but can only face trial with congressional approval, a situation complicated by the fractures within the ruling party.
