Colombian Presidential Candidate Shot at Bogota Rally
Colombia was shaken on Saturday as presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay was shot during a rally in Bogotá’s Fontibon neighborhood.
Uribe, 39, a right-wing opposition senator, was addressing a crowd when gunfire erupted, as seen in a video shared widely on X (formerly Twitter).
The video captures Uribe speaking at a campaign event. Suddenly, more than three shots are heard. He collapses as people rush to help him.
Paramedics confirmed Uribe was shot three times—twice in the head and once in the knee. He was seen bleeding, supported by several attendees.
As of now, there is no official update on his medical condition.
Political Reactions Across Latin America
The attack triggered global condemnation.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric condemned the violence, stating:
“There is no room for violence in a democracy.”
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa echoed similar views, saying:
“We condemn all forms of violence and intolerance.”
In Colombia, former President Álvaro Uribe said,
“They attacked the hope of the country.”
Uribe Turbay’s Democratic Centre party called the shooting “an unacceptable act of violence.”
Details of the Attack
According to police reports, the assault occurred in a public park. Attackers reportedly shot him from behind.
Bogotá Mayor Carlos Galán confirmed that a suspected gunman was arrested. A minor involved was also detained with a leg wound. A firearm was recovered at the scene.
President Gustavo Petro posted on X:
“Respect life, that’s the red line.”
He canceled a scheduled France visit following the incident.
Upcoming Elections and Political Backdrop
Colombia will hold its presidential elections on May 31, 2026.
Uribe Turbay, who declared his candidacy in March, belongs to the conservative Democratic Centre, founded by Álvaro Uribe. Despite the name, the two Uribes are not related.
Miguel Uribe is the son of a journalist killed in 1991, during a violent period in Colombia.
Security Response and US Involvement
Colombian police chief Gen. Carlos Triana reported that Uribe was with 20 others, including Councilman Andrés Barrios, during the attack.
Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez ordered a full-scale response:
“All military, police, and intelligence resources will be used to investigate.”
From the US, Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the attack, writing:
“This is a direct threat to democracy… President Petro must protect officials and stop inflammatory rhetoric.”