Bolivia arrests political adviser to Latin American right-wingers

Fernando Cerimedo, a 42-year-old political adviser, has been arrested in Bolivia on suspicion of orchestrating the attempted murder of his girlfriend, Bolivian lawyer Nadia Beller. The arrest follows an attack on Beller, who claims she was targeted due to her opposition to corruption. Cerimedo is known for his connections to various far-right leaders across Latin America, including his role as an adviser to Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz Pereira and as a key strategist in Javier Milei’s campaign during Argentina's 2023 presidential election. The allegations against Cerimedo include ordering the shooting of Beller, which has drawn significant attention due to his political affiliations and the implications of such violence in the context of political rivalry and corruption. Beller has publicly stated that her activism against corruption made her a target, highlighting the risks faced by those opposing powerful political figures in the region. Cerimedo's arrest marks a notable incident in Bolivia's political landscape, where tensions between different political factions have been escalating. The case raises questions about the safety of activists and the potential for political violence in Latin America, particularly as far-right movements gain traction in several countries. The investigation into the attempted murder continues, with authorities focusing on the details surrounding the attack and Cerimedo's involvement.