Bogota, 8 June (H.S.): A Colombian right-wing opposition senator and presidential candidate, Miguel Uribe, was shot during a campaign event in Bogota on Saturday. The incident occurred while he was addressing supporters, and a video on social media captures the moment when gunfire erupted. Reports indicate that one bullet struck Uribe in the neck or head, leading to his admission to intensive care. Authorities have arrested a 15-year-old suspect in connection to the shooting. Uribe, 39, was delivering a speech when the attack took place, highlighting the rising violence against political figures in the country. The shooting raises concerns about security and the atmosphere surrounding the upcoming presidential election in Colombia.
In recent images, senator Uribe is seen bloodied and slumped against a white car as bystanders attempt to support him. Reports indicate the suspected shooter is a teenager who has since been arrested. Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo confirmed Uribe’s admission to intensive care with at least one bullet striking his neck or head. The leftist government of President Gustavo Petro has strongly condemned the attack, asserting it threatens democracy and free political expression in Colombia. Uribe, a prominent member of the Democratic Center party and a vocal critic of Petro, had announced his candidacy for the 2026 presidential election. His party reported the senator was shot from behind, emphasizing the attack’s implications for political safety.
Bogota Mayor Carlos Galan announced that the shooter was captured, while local media identified the suspect as a 15-year-old boy. Attorney General Camargo noted these reports were yet to be verified. Uribe’s family has deep political roots; his grandfather was former president Julio Cesar Turbay, and his mother, Diana Turbay, was a journalist who was tragically killed during a kidnapping. A senator since 2022, Uribe had previously served as Bogota’s government secretary and attempted a mayoral run in 2019. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez has announced a reward of $700,000 for information on those involved in the attack.
—————
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
