Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe shot in head during rally

Presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay is in critical condition after being shot three times — including twice in the head — during a campaign event in Bogotá.

In a live televised address, President Petro called for a thorough investigation to identify the mastermind behind the attack. “No resource or time should be spared, not a single peso and not a single moment of energy, to dedicate it exclusively to finding the mastermind behind the murder,” Petro said, underscoring that all political figures—regardless of their beliefs—deserve the right to life.

Uribe, a right-wing candidate and member of the Democratic Center party, was shot in the head by a lone assailant while attending a campaign rally in Fontibón, a district of Bogotá. According to eyewitnesses, the attacker approached Uribe from behind and fired six shots, two of which struck him. Videos circulating on social media showed the 39-year-old politician covered in blood before being rushed to hospital by his security team.

Fundación Santa Fe Hospital reported that Uribe was in critical condition and undergoing neurosurgical and vascular procedures. “He is receiving priority care from our team of specialists,” the hospital said in a statement late Saturday.

Uribe's wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, appealed for prayers. “Miguel is currently fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors,” she said in a post shared via Uribe’s official X account.

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán confirmed the arrest of the suspected shooter, later identified by the Attorney General’s Office as a 15-year-old in possession of a 9mm Glock pistol. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that authorities are investigating whether others may have been involved. “There will be no room for impunity,” Sánchez said on social media.

The assassination attempt has drawn swift condemnation from across the political spectrum and from regional leaders. Presidents of Chile, Ecuador, and Mexico expressed solidarity with Colombia, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio pointed to “violent leftist rhetoric” as a factor behind the attack and urged President Petro to reduce inflammatory discourse and ensure the safety of public officials.

As Colombia enters a tense election season, the shooting has reignited fears of political violence and underscored the country’s volatile security climate. Authorities have pledged a full and transparent investigation.

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