Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay is in intensive care after being shot three times—twice in the head—during a campaign rally in Bogotá on Saturday.
The 39-year-old senator was addressing supporters in a park when an assailant opened fire, sending the crowd into panic. Disturbing footage circulating online captures the moment Uribe was struck mid-speech before collapsing. Authorities swiftly arrested a 15-year-old suspect at the scene, though no motive has been confirmed. Uribe’s wife, María Claudia Tarazona, pleaded for prayers, stating, “Miguel is currently fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors treating him.”
The Santa Fe Foundation hospital, where Uribe is being treated, reported that he underwent emergency surgeries for his head and left thigh wounds but remains in critical condition. Doctors are working to stabilize him, though the severity of his injuries has raised grave concerns.
Uribe, a prominent conservative figure and the son of former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe Vélez’s cousin, has been a vocal advocate for security reforms—a central issue in Colombia’s upcoming election. His shooting has sent shockwaves through the nation, reigniting fears of political violence in a country with a long history of assassinations and armed conflict.
The attack has drawn condemnation from across Colombia’s political spectrum, with President Gustavo Petro calling it a “cowardly act” and urging a thorough investigation. Analysts warn that the assault could further polarize an already tense election season, marked by rising violence against social leaders and candidates. As Uribe battles for survival, the incident underscores the persistent dangers facing public figures in Colombia and raises urgent questions about security for political campaigns ahead of the vote.
