Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a leading contender for Colombia’s 2026 presidential election, is in critical condition after being shot three times—twice in the head—during a public rally in Bogotá on Saturday.

The attack, which occurred while Uribe was addressing supporters in a city park, has sent shockwaves across the nation. According to police, a 15-year-old male suspect was apprehended at the scene with a 9mm Glock-type firearm. Authorities say the suspect was wounded in the leg while fleeing and remains in custody.

“He’s Fighting for His Life”

Uribe’s wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, pleaded with the public to pray for his recovery.

“Miguel is currently fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the doctors treating him.”

Uribe was rushed to Santa Fe Foundation Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgeries on his head and leg. As of Sunday morning, he remains in intensive care in a critical state, according to hospital officials.

Political Shock and National Response

The Centro Democrático Party, which Uribe represents, condemned the shooting as a direct attack on democracy. Bogotá’s mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán, said the violence is a tragic reminder of Colombia’s dark political past.

President Gustavo Petro also condemned the attack, calling it a “day of pain” for the country.

“Though we have political differences, what matters now is unity in wishing for Miguel’s survival,” Petro said in a national address.

Investigation Underway

The suspect’s motives remain unclear. Authorities are offering a 3 billion peso ($730,000) reward for information on any individuals or groups possibly behind the attempted assassination.

The U.S. government also responded. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the attack a “threat to Colombian democracy,” attributing blame to “increasing violent rhetoric” in the nation’s politics.

A Grim Reminder of Colombia’s Violent Past

Uribe, 39, comes from a prominent political family. His mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was tragically killed in a 1991 rescue mission after being kidnapped by the Medellín cartel.

Saturday’s shooting echoes Colombia’s past, when political violence and drug cartels destabilized the nation. In 2025 alone, over 32,000 people have been displaced due to armed conflict in the country’s northern regions.

Summary:

• Victim: Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, Colombian presidential candidate
• Incident: Shot 3 times during rally, remains in critical condition
• Suspect: 15-year-old male in custody, investigation ongoing
• Impact: National and international condemnation, renewed fears of political violence

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