Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay Shot at Campaign Rally

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay was shot at a campaign rally in Bogota, raising alarms about political violence ahead of the 2026 presidential election. While one suspect is in custody, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are seeking additional suspects. Leaders, including President Gustavo Petro, condemned the attack as unacceptable, and Uribe’s party is calling for respect for life in politics.

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, who has his eyes set on next year’s presidential election, was shot during a campaign rally in Bogota on Saturday. This alarming incident sparked widespread concern, as his party labeled the violence as “unacceptable”. Uribe Turbay is part of the conservative Democratic Center party, established by former President Alvaro Uribe, and he was targeted while speaking to supporters in Fontibon Park when gunmen shot him from behind.

Images that flooded social media depicted the senator covered in blood, appearing to have suffered a head wound, as he was supported by bystanders. Officials have yet to provide an update regarding his health status. The mayor of Bogotá, Carlos Galán, reported that one suspect has been taken into custody, while authorities are actively searching for more suspects involved, with the federal government even offering a reward for their capture.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro took to social media platform X to express his condemnation of the attack, asserting, “Respect life, that’s the red line.” In light of the gravity of the situation, Petro also postponed a trip to France. Uribe Turbay, whose father was a journalist killed by kidnappers in 1991, has been in public service for some time and officially declared his intent to run for president in March.

Authorities revealed that at the time of the shooting, the senator was not alone; he was accompanied by a councilman, Andrés Barrios, along with twenty additional individuals. A minor, allegedly involved in the shooting, was detained at the scene after suffering a leg injury, while a firearm was recovered.

Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez ordered a comprehensive investigation, mobilizing military and police forces along with intelligence agencies to swiftly determine the circumstances surrounding the attack. Former President Uribe expressed deep concern, stating, “they attacked the hope of the country, a great husband, father, son, brother, a great colleague,” highlighting the emotional impact of the incident on the nation.

The shooting of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay during a campaign rally raises serious concerns about political violence in Colombia. With one suspect captured and a reward issued for others, authorities are under pressure to resolve the case swiftly. The incident has sparked condemnation from political leaders, underscoring the urgent need for respect for life in Colombian politics. As the nation approaches the presidential election in 2026, this attack casts a shadow over the electoral landscape.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com