Conservative Senator Miguel Uribe Turbey from Colombia was tragically shot at a campaign rally in Bogota, the capital. He was left seriously injured and ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The shocking footage has rattled a nation that, decades ago, frequently endured the assassination of politicians and public figures.
At 39, Uribe Turbey, who had declared his intention to run for president next year, is currently in critical condition following surgery on Sunday, the day after the shooting. Medical professionals have indicated that he is going through “critical times.”
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A Conservative Presidential Aspirant
Uribe Turbey, affiliated with the right-wing Democratic Centre Party, launched his presidential campaign in March. He has emerged as a leading opponent of President Gustavo Petro, the first leftist leader of Colombia, who will not be eligible for re-election in 2026.
With a background marred by political violence in his family, Uribe Turbey announced his presidential ambitions last October via social media, choosing the Antioan family home in Copacabana as the setting.
Presidential elections in the country are scheduled for May 31, 2026.
“A place that holds deeper meaning for me,” he stated in the video. “It was here that my mother was invited by Pablo Escobar, and she was killed just before I turned five.”
His mother, journalist Diana Turbey, was targeted by the Medellin Cartel during one of the most violent periods in Colombia’s history in 1991.
The assault on Uribe Turbey on Saturday shocked the nation and rekindled memories of a period characterized by political violence affecting public life in Colombia.
The Legacy of a Political Family
Uribe Turbey embarked on his political journey early, securing a seat on the Bogota City Council in 2012 at only 25 years old.
He became a Senator in 2022.
Born into a notable political family, he is the grandson of former President Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala, who held office from 1978 to 1982, and the paternal grandson of prominent liberal superintendent Rodrigo Ulibarri Echavarría.
Recent polls show he is not seen as a front-runner for next year’s election and faces rivalry within his political coalition. In his early campaign messaging, Uribe Turbey is prioritizing security, with hopes to attract investment and support economic stability.
“Prognosis Uncertain”
Following surgery at a private clinic in Bogota, the senator is said to be in “critical time,” according to authorities.
“He survived the procedure, but these are pivotal moments for his survival,” Bogota Mayor Carlos Garan stated early Sunday after receiving updates from medical personnel at the Fundación SantaFe Clinic.
“His condition remains very serious, and the prognosis is uncertain,” the clinic added in a subsequent medical report.
Authorities have detained a 15-year-old boy, believed to be the shooter; however, they have not disclosed the motives behind the attack.
The Colombian Ombudsman’s office condemned the act of violence, stating, “When violence stifles ideas, candidates, or political leadership, the nation must not allow a return to dark times.”
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Source: apnews.com