Daijiworld Media Network - Bogota
Bogota, Jun 8: In a shocking attack that has sent ripples across Latin America, Colombian presidential candidate and senator Miguel Uribe Turbay was shot during a campaign rally in Bogotá on Saturday. The 39-year-old right-wing leader, affiliated with the Democratic Centre party, was hit by three bullets—two to the head and one to the knee—according to paramedic reports cited by AFP.
The horrifying moment was captured in a viral video, showing Turbay addressing supporters in Bogotá’s Fontibón neighbourhood when gunfire suddenly rang out. Screams followed as the crowd dispersed. Turbay, bloodied and wounded, was seen being helped by aides. His current medical condition remains unconfirmed, and official updates are awaited.
Turbay, a senator and son of a journalist who was kidnapped and murdered in 1991, had declared his presidential candidacy in March. The upcoming election is slated for May 31, 2026.
Authorities have detained a suspect at the scene, a minor reportedly involved in the shooting who also sustained a leg injury. Bogotá’s Mayor Carlos Galán confirmed the arrest, and President Gustavo Petro has announced a reward for information on other accomplices. A firearm was recovered from the scene.
Reactions have poured in from across the continent. Colombian President Petro condemned the violence, stating on X, “Respect life, that’s the red line,” and cancelled a scheduled trip to France. Former President Álvaro Uribe called Turbay “the hope of the country.”
Chilean President Gabriel Boric and Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa also condemned the attack, affirming that violence has no place in a democracy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio termed the assassination attempt a “direct threat to democracy,” blaming it on “violent leftist rhetoric” and urging protection for officials.
The Colombian government has directed its military, police, and intelligence services to probe the attack thoroughly. Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that all security agencies are on high alert.
Turbay’s Democratic Centre party described the attack as “an unacceptable act of violence.” Turbay was accompanied by Councilman Andrés Barrios and around 20 supporters at the time.
Colombia remains tense as the country grapples with the growing political violence ahead of the 2026 elections.