The center of political life in Colombia has been shaken by a tragic and shocking event – an attempted assassination of one of the country’s most influential opposition politicians
In the capital city, Bogotá, an attack was carried out on Senator and potential presidential candidate Miguel Uribe, who is a key figure within conservative political circles. This incident has sparked widespread resonance not only among political circles but also in society as a whole, highlighting the serious challenges facing the preservation of democracy in the country today. According to information published by international media outlet CNN and confirmed by police and government officials, the attack occurred on the evening of the same day, around 5:00 p.m., when Uribe was participating in a pre-election event in the Fontibón district – one of Bogotá's central and strategic areas. Witnesses report that the assault was carried out by armed individuals who opened fire from behind the politician – the assailants used firearms and shot at his body. As a result of the attack, Uribe sustained injuries and was provided emergency medical assistance at the scene before being hospitalized at a local hospital. Bogotá’s Mayor, Carlos Gálan, who was on-site during the incident, stated that Uribe’s condition remains under medical supervision; however, his life is still at risk. Both foreign and local law enforcement agencies have already detained suspects involved in the attack, indicating the seriousness and thoroughness of the investigation. Authorities are currently working to establish all circumstances surrounding the incident and are searching for motives as well as the organized perpetrators behind this criminal act. This act of violence has elicited various reactions from national and regional leaders. The Colombian government and the Democratic Center party, to which Uribe belongs, have unanimously condemned the attack, calling it “an outright attempt at intimidation and terrorism.” Former presidents of Colombia – Ernesto Samper, Álvaro Uribe, Juan Manuel Santos, and Iván Duque – also expressed their concern and condemned acts of violence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining political stability and security in the country. President Gustavo Petro, in his official statement, expressed condolences to Uribe’s family, noting that such actions undermine the foundations of democracy and the rule of law. He called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a swift and objective investigation into the incident and assured the public of his readiness to ensure the safety of all political figures. The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as “a direct assault on democracy and political freedoms.” The authorities called on the public and law enforcement agencies to work together to clarify the circumstances of the crime and to find those responsible. Senior politicians stated that violence of this nature is unacceptable and has no place in a modern democratic country. Reactions from the international community, including former presidents and leading regional leaders, reflect the level of societal concern. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa expressed his condolences and condemned all forms of violence and intolerance, emphasizing the need to preserve political stability in the region. The United Nations Human Rights Office in Bogotá also called on the country's authorities to conduct a quick and transparent investigation, ensuring guarantees for the political rights and freedoms of citizens. The statement highlights that regardless of political views and ambitions, the use of violence is unacceptable and undermines the foundations of the country’s democratic process. This incident once again underscores the urgent and vital need to strengthen the security systems protecting politicians and ensuring political stability in Colombia. Amid rising tensions and political polarization, safe political activity and guarantees of the safety and health of presidential candidates become primary tasks for state authorities. At the same time, the international community watches with hope to see whether the country can overcome this challenge and return to a truly democratic and secure political environment.