Miguel Uribe Turbay, a 39-year-old senator and pre-candidate for Colombia’s 2026 presidential election, was critically wounded when a gunman opened fire during a small campaign gathering on Saturday. Local authorities say he was struck three times—twice in the head and once in the knee—and has since been airlifted to the Sante Fe Clinic, where he remains in critical condition.
Attack and Arrest
• Shooting Details: As Uribe Turbay addressed supporters at El Golfito Park in the Fontibón district, video footage shows the assailant approaching from behind and firing multiple shots at close range. Witnesses fled in panic.
• Suspect in Custody: Police detained a 15-year-old on the spot. Investigators are probing whether the teenager acted alone or with accomplices.
Reactions and Response
• Family Appeal: His wife, María Claudia Tarazona, urged Colombians to pray for his recovery: “Miguel is fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors treating him.”
• Political Condemnations:
• The Democratic Centre party denounced the “attack on a political leader” as both a threat to democracy and to public freedom.
• President Gustavo Petro’s government issued a forceful statement condemning the violence as an “assault not only on his person but on Colombian democracy.”
• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the shooting “a direct threat to democracy” and voiced solidarity with Uribe Turbay.
Background and Significance
• Political Lineage: Uribe Turbay, grandson of former President Julio César Turbay Ayala and son of journalist Diana Turbay (killed during a 1991 rescue attempt after kidnapping by the Medellín cartel), has served in the Senate since 2022 and formally entered the presidential race last October.
• Campaign Context: His bid represents the right-wing Democratic Centre, formerly led by President Álvaro Uribe. His candidacy has focused on public security and economic growth.
Next Steps
Authorities have offered a substantial reward for information leading to further arrests. Security has been heightened at political events nationwide as Colombia faces renewed concerns over election-related violence.