Colombian Presidential Candidate Miguel Uribe Shot at Bogota Rally in Suspected Assassination Attempt
In a shocking development that has shaken Colombia’s political landscape, presidential candidate Miguel Uribe was shot and critically wounded during a campaign rally in Bogota’s Fontana district on Saturday evening. The 15-year-old suspect, who was apprehended at the scene, was found carrying a 9mm Glock pistol, according to local police sources.
Uribe, a prominent center-right figure and former Bogotá city councilor, was rushed to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition as of Sunday morning. Medical staff are reportedly battling to stabilize his vital signs.
Teen Suspect Arrested on the Spot
Eyewitnesses say the rally was proceeding normally until gunfire erupted near the stage, causing widespread panic. Security forces quickly subdued the teenage shooter, who allegedly fired multiple rounds at Uribe at close range.
Authorities have confirmed the recovery of a Glock 17 handgun used in the attack. Investigators are now probing the suspect’s background to determine whether the shooting was the act of a lone wolf or part of a coordinated political assassination plot.
Police and Government Launch Full Investigation
Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack and has directed national intelligence and law enforcement agencies to investigate the motive and affiliations of the attacker.
“An attack on any political candidate is an attack on Colombian democracy,” Petro said in a statement. “The government will ensure that the truth is uncovered and justice is served.”
Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco has convened an emergency security meeting and confirmed that all presidential candidates will receive enhanced protection in the run-up to the 2025 general elections.
International Condemnation of the Attack
The United States Secretary of State, in a strongly worded statement issued late Saturday, condemned the shooting as a “direct threat to democratic institutions”. The statement added that Washington was closely monitoring the situation and offered support to Colombian authorities in their investigation.
The Organization of American States (OAS) and the European Union have also expressed concern, urging a thorough inquiry and calling on all political actors to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Who is Miguel Uribe?
Miguel Uribe Turbay, 38, is one of Colombia’s rising political stars. A lawyer and economist by training, Uribe has positioned himself as a strong voice for economic reform, anti-corruption measures, and public security. His campaign has gained considerable traction, especially among the urban middle class.
Uribe previously served as Secretary of Government of Bogotá and has long advocated for stronger action against organized crime and narco-violence. He is affiliated with the center-right Democratic Center party, founded by former President Álvaro Uribe.
Violence and Elections in Colombia
Colombia has a long, fraught history of electoral violence, with several high-profile assassinations in past decades. While the peace process with FARC and other insurgent groups has improved national stability, politically motivated violence remains a persistent threat.
This latest attack has reignited concerns about the safety of political figures in the country and the potential resurgence of extremist violence as the 2025 presidential race gains momentum.
What Happens Next?
With Miguel Uribe’s condition still precarious, his campaign has been temporarily suspended. The Electoral Commission has called an emergency session to discuss candidate security protocols, while opposition and allied political parties alike have expressed solidarity and demanded swift justice.
Security agencies are expected to issue an update within the next 48 hours, once initial investigations shed more light on the motive behind the attack.