In a chilling reminder of Colombia’s turbulent history with political violence, Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a prominent figure in the right-wing Democratic Center party, was shot and critically wounded during a campaign rally in Bogotá on June 7, 2025. The attack, which took place in the Fontibón neighborhood, has sent shockwaves through the nation, reigniting fears of a return to the violent political climate of decades past. This article delves into the details of the incident, its implications for Colombia’s democracy, and the broader context of political violence in the country.
A Violent Attack in Bogotá
The incident occurred during a campaign event in a park in Bogotá’s Fontibón district, where Senator Uribe was addressing supporters as part of his early campaign for the 2026 presidential election. According to reports, assailants shot the 39-year-old senator from behind, striking him twice, with wounds to the head or neck. The attack left Uribe in critical condition, and he was rushed to the Santa Fe Foundation hospital, where he underwent emergency neurosurgical and vascular procedures. His wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, took to social media to urge Colombians to pray for her husband, stating, “Miguel is fighting for his life.”
Authorities swiftly apprehended a 15-year-old suspect at the scene, who was found in possession of a firearm. The teenager, reportedly injured in the leg during the incident, is now in custody as the Attorney General’s Office investigates the motive behind the attack. The Colombian government has offered a reward of approximately $700,000 for information leading to the capture of any additional perpetrators, signaling a determined effort to bring those responsible to justice.
En Colombia la izquierda atentó contra el senador y candidato presidencial Miguel Uribe Turbay.
Recibió un disparo entre la cabeza y el cuello. Su estado es grave.
Así funciona la izquierda en todo el mundo. pic.twitter.com/va5pAVAf72
— IRON (@GordoSuperavit) June 8, 2025
A Nation Condemns the Violence
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across Colombia and the Latin American region. President Gustavo Petro’s administration issued a statement denouncing the shooting as an assault not only on Uribe but also on “democracy, freedom of thought, and the legitimate exercise of politics in Colombia.” Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia expressed hope for Uribe’s recovery, emphasizing that “violence can never be the way forward.” Similarly, Bogotá Mayor Carlos Galán confirmed the suspect’s detention and assured the public that authorities are working to uncover the full circumstances of the attack.
International leaders also voiced their outrage. Chilean President Gabriel Boric stated, “There is no room or justification for violence in a democracy,” while Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa condemned “all forms of violence and intolerance,” offering solidarity to Uribe’s family. These responses highlight the regional concern over political violence, particularly in a country like Colombia, which has struggled to overcome its history of conflict.
A Tragic Family Legacy
Miguel Uribe Turbay is no stranger to the devastating impact of violence. His mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was kidnapped in 1990 by members of Pablo Escobar’s Medellín Cartel and tragically killed during a rescue operation in 1991. Hours before the attack, Uribe had spoken publicly about his mother’s death, displaying a photo of them together and sharing how her assassination shaped his mission to combat violence in Colombia. The irony of his own brush with violence has not been lost on observers, with many drawing parallels to the dark days of the 1990s, when political assassinations were rampant.
Uribe, the grandson of former Colombian President Julio César Turbay Ayala, is a prominent figure in the Democratic Center party, founded by former President Álvaro Uribe (no relation). Known for his vocal criticism of President Petro’s administration, Uribe has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for conservative values and a hardline stance against Colombia’s ongoing security challenges. His early campaign for the 2026 presidential election had already garnered significant attention, making this attack all the more alarming.
Colombia’s History of Political Violence
Colombia has a long and troubled history of political violence, much of it tied to the country’s decades-long internal conflict involving guerrilla groups, paramilitaries, and drug cartels. While the 2016 peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) marked a significant step toward stability, the nation continues to grapple with violence, particularly in rural areas where groups like the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident FARC factions operate. The attack on Uribe underscores the persistent threat of violence in Colombian politics, even in the capital city.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch, Colombia remains one of the most dangerous countries for political activists and human rights defenders, with hundreds killed in recent years. The targeting of a high-profile figure like Uribe suggests that even urban centers like Bogotá are not immune to such threats. This incident has reignited debates about the need for stronger security measures for political candidates and a renewed commitment to rooting out the causes of violence.
Implications for Colombia’s Democracy
The shooting of Miguel Uribe Turbay raises serious questions about the safety of political discourse in Colombia. As the Democratic Center party noted in its statement, the attack is not just against Uribe but against the very principles of democracy and freedom. With the 2026 presidential election on the horizon, this incident could have a chilling effect on political participation, discouraging candidates and voters alike from engaging in the democratic process.
Key concerns include:
- Increased security risks for candidates: Political figures may require enhanced protection, potentially limiting their ability to connect with voters.
- Polarization and fear: The attack could deepen political divisions, with some factions exploiting the incident to advance their agendas.
- Public trust in institutions: The government’s ability to swiftly investigate and prevent future attacks will be critical to maintaining public confidence.
Former President Álvaro Uribe, a towering figure in Colombian politics, described the attack as targeting “the hope of the country,” praising Uribe Turbay as a dedicated family man and colleague. His words reflect the broader sentiment that this act of violence threatens not only an individual but the aspirations of a nation striving for peace.
What’s Next for Colombia?
As investigations continue, authorities are under pressure to uncover the motive behind the attack and determine whether it was an isolated act or part of a broader conspiracy. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez has pledged the full resources of Colombia’s military, police, and intelligence agencies to clarify the facts. The arrest of the 15-year-old suspect raises additional questions about the involvement of younger individuals in such acts, potentially pointing to deeper societal issues.
For now, Uribe remains in critical condition, with the nation holding its breath for his recovery. His wife’s call for prayers has resonated widely, with countless Colombians taking to social media to express their support. The incident has also prompted renewed calls for unity, with leaders across the political spectrum urging citizens to reject violence and recommit to democratic values.
The shooting of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay is a stark reminder of the challenges Colombia faces in its quest for lasting peace. As the nation grapples with this shocking act of violence, the focus must remain on justice, healing, and strengthening democratic institutions. The resilience of Colombia’s people and their commitment to democracy will be tested in the months ahead, but the outpouring of support for Uribe suggests a collective determination to rise above this tragedy. For more information on Colombia’s ongoing security challenges, visit International Crisis Group or BBC News Latin America.
