Colombia is in shock after a shooting targeted Miguel Uribe, a presidential candidate for 2026. He was shot on Saturday during a campaign event in Bogotá. Uribe is a senator and member of the conservative Democratic Centre party.
The Miguel Uribe assassination attempt happened in a public park in the Fontibón area. Witnesses saw him collapse on the hood of a white car, bleeding. People nearby rushed to help him and tried to stop the bleeding until medics arrived.
Emergency services flew him to a hospital. Bogotá’s mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán, said Uribe made it through surgery. However, he is still in critical condition.
Uribe’s wife, María Claudia Tarazona, later spoke to reporters. “He came out of the surgery well,” she said, “but he is still fighting for his life. He won the first battle, now he faces another one.”
Teen Suspect Caught After Attack
Security guards quickly caught the shooter. Authorities say the suspect is only 15 years old. He was injured during the arrest and is now receiving medical care under police watch.
Police also found a Glock-style handgun at the scene. Two other people—a man and a woman—were wounded. Thankfully, their injuries are not life-threatening.
Carlos Fernando Triana, head of the national police, confirmed the arrest. Defense Minister Pedro Arnulfo Sánchez said that police, military, and intelligence teams are now working together. They are trying to find out who was behind the attack. The government has offered a reward of 3 billion pesos (about £540,000) for useful information.
Political Rivalry and Tensions
Uribe has often criticized Colombia’s current president, Gustavo Petro. His campaign focuses on safety, family values, and jobs. Many people see him as one of the top rivals in the next election.
President Petro condemned the attack. “I hope Miguel Uribe survives,” he said. “We must all support him right now.” Petro confirmed that the shooter is a minor. He also said that officials will check if Uribe’s security plan had any flaws.
International Support and Concern
The Miguel Uribe assassination attempt quickly drew attention from other countries. Spain released a statement saying, “Violence has no place in our societies.” The Spanish government wished Uribe a fast recovery and expressed support for the Colombian people.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the shooting. However, he blamed left-wing leaders in Colombia for using harmful speech. He said that such talk might lead to violence.
This is not the first time tensions have risen between Colombia and the U.S. Recently, the two countries clashed over migration issues and trade rules.
A Family With Deep Political Roots
Miguel Uribe is from a well-known political family. For instance, his grandfather, Julio César Turbay Ayala, was Colombia’s president from 1978 to 1982. Moreover, his mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was kidnapped in 1990. Tragically, she died during a failed rescue mission.
Her story became known around the world through the book News of a Kidnapping by Gabriel García Márquez. This family history has shaped Uribe’s life and public image.
Renewed Fear of Political Violence
This attack has reminded many people of Colombia’s violent past. The country struggled for decades with attacks on leaders, rebels, and drug cartels. Now, people fear the return of that violence.
Groups that promote free elections and civil rights are asking for better security. They say candidates must be protected while they campaign. Some also demand an update to security laws.
The Miguel Uribe assassination attempt showed how weak current safety plans are. Voters are asking for real action and more respect in politics.
What Happens Now?
Doctors are still caring for Uribe in intensive care. His condition is serious but stable. Family members said he is awake and reacting.
Supporters have gathered outside the hospital. Some are praying. Others are holding signs that say, “Stay strong, Miguel.” Social media is filled with messages of hope.
Police are working hard to find out why the attack happened. They are looking into whether someone else planned or helped with it. They also want to know if the motive was political or criminal.
A Turning Point for Colombia
Leaders from all political sides have spoken out. Everyone agrees the attack was wrong. Many say it is time for Colombia to come together in peace.
This moment could lead to real change. Or it could deepen the country’s political divisions. For now, people hope Miguel Uribe survives—and that Colombia can avoid more violence.
Courtesy of The Guardian
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