Miguel Uribe Turbay, a rising figure in Colombian politics and a prominent 2026 presidential candidate, was critically wounded in an apparent assassination attempt during a public rally in Bogotá on June 7, 2025. The shocking incident occurred while he was addressing supporters in the Fontibón district. Witnesses report that multiple gunshots were fired, hitting the senator in the back and near the head. Authorities acted swiftly, apprehending the suspect at the scene. The attack has sent shockwaves across the country and raised urgent concerns over political violence and democratic stability.
Miguel Uribe Turbay: Legacy, Leadership, and Presidential Aspirations
Miguel Uribe Turbay is no stranger to public life. Born into a family with deep political roots, he is the grandson of former President Julio César Turbay Ayala and son of journalist Diana Turbay, who was tragically killed during a failed rescue mission in 1991. These personal tragedies shaped his path, driving his commitment to public service.
He began his political career as a Bogotá city council member and later served as Secretary of Government under Mayor Enrique Peñalosa. In 2022, he was elected to the Senate with the most votes under the Centro Democrático party, reinforcing his growing popularity. His recent presidential campaign gained momentum through a message focused on security, economic revival, and institutional stability—values shaken by Saturday’s attack.
June 7 Attack: What Happened in Bogotá
The attack unfolded at El Golfito Park during an open-air campaign event. Just minutes into his speech, shots rang out, causing panic among the crowd. Bystanders and security rushed to assist Miguel Uribe, who was bleeding heavily. He was immediately transported to Engativá Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery.
Here’s a summary of the known facts:
- Date & Time: June 7, 2025 – around 5:00 PM
- Location: Modelia neighborhood, Bogotá
- Victim: Miguel Uribe Turbay, senator and 2026 presidential candidate
- Status: In critical but stable condition
- Suspect: Detained on-site; identity under investigation
Security officials and prosecutors are working to establish the motives and connections behind the incident.
Political Leaders React: Calls for Peace and Accountability
The attempted assassination drew immediate reactions from all sides of Colombia’s political spectrum. President Gustavo Petro, despite ideological differences with Miguel Uribe, condemned the attack and assured the public of full government cooperation in the investigation. “We must protect democracy, not destroy it,” he stated.
Former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez, leader of the Centro Democrático party and a close political ally, described the act as “cowardly and evil,” demanding swift justice. Other major figures like Senator María Fernanda Cabal and Representative Katherine Miranda echoed similar sentiments, expressing concern over increasing threats against public officials.
Key government responses include:
- A COP 3 billion reward for information related to the case.
- Immediate deployment of additional police units for candidate security.
- Emergency intelligence coordination between the Ministry of Defense and National Police.
A Disturbing Reminder of Colombia’s Violent Past
Colombians are no strangers to political violence. The memories of past leaders like Luis Carlos Galán, Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, and Carlos Pizarro—who were assassinated while campaigning—remain etched in the national consciousness. The shooting of Miguel Uribe Turbay has resurfaced these fears and prompted calls for greater protection of democratic processes.
Citizens and analysts are now asking urgent questions:
- How secure are Colombia’s presidential campaigns?
- Are current security protocols enough to protect public figures?
- Could this attack reignite cycles of politically motivated violence?
These concerns point to a pivotal moment in Colombia’s democratic journey. Ensuring transparency, justice, and nonviolence in political discourse is now a national imperative.
What’s Next for Miguel Uribe and the Nation?
As of the latest medical updates, Miguel Uribe Turbay remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition. Surgeons have reportedly removed one bullet, while monitoring potential brain damage caused by a second wound. His family has requested privacy but expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.
The implications of this attack go beyond one candidate:
- Colombian elections may face tighter security protocols.
- Other candidates are reconsidering their campaign formats.
- The electorate is watching to see how leaders respond—with unity or division.
Whether Miguel Uribe will continue his campaign depends on his recovery. Yet his name has now become symbolic—of both the fragility and resilience of Colombian democracy.
Final Thoughts: Democracy Must Not Bleed
The shooting of Miguel Uribe Turbay is a grim reminder that Colombia’s democratic gains remain under threat. In a country striving to move past decades of bloodshed, political violence must not be tolerated in any form. Colombians must come together—regardless of ideology—to defend the right to speak, vote, and lead without fear.
Democracy does not thrive through silence, violence, or intimidation. It flourishes when courage meets compassion, and when justice meets action. Stand up, speak out, and support peaceful political engagement—because Colombia’s future depends on it.