Colombian Presidential Precandidate Miguel Uribe Shot; Suspect Arrested

Web Editor

June 7, 2025

a group of people in white suits standing around a police motorcycle and police tape around them and

Background on Miguel Uribe and His Political Significance

Miguel Uribe, a 39-year-old Colombian senator and precandidate for the upcoming presidential election, was shot during a campaign event on Saturday. The incident took place in the Fontibón neighborhood of western Bogotá, Colombia’s capital. Uribe was targeted by armed assailants who shot him from behind, leaving him in critical condition at a local hospital.

The Attack and Its Implications

Uribe’s political party, the conservative Centro Democrático (Democratic Center), strongly condemned the attack, stating that it not only endangers a political leader’s life but also undermines democracy and freedom in Colombia. The government also denounced the aggression.

Investigation and Response

Colombia’s Minister of Defense, Pedro Sánchez, reported that a suspect had been apprehended and that authorities were investigating whether additional individuals were involved in the incident. Minister Sánchez also visited Uribe at the hospital to offer support.

Support from Political Rivals

Despite ideological differences, leftist President Gustavo Petro expressed his sympathy for Uribe’s family through a message on X (formerly Twitter): “I don’t know how to alleviate his pain.”

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Miguel Uribe? Miguel Uribe is a 39-year-old Colombian senator and precandidate for the upcoming presidential election.
  • What happened to Miguel Uribe? During a campaign event, Uribe was shot by armed assailants from behind in the Fontibón neighborhood of Bogotá, leaving him in critical condition.
  • What was the response to the attack? Uribe’s political party, Centro Democrático, and the Colombian government condemned the attack, emphasizing its threat to democracy and freedom in Colombia.
  • Who has shown support for Uribe? Despite political differences, President Gustavo Petro expressed his sympathy for Uribe’s family.
  • What is the current status of the investigation? A suspect has been arrested, and authorities are investigating whether additional individuals were involved in the attack.