Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Shot at Campaign Event in Bogotá

Miguel Uribe, a Colombian senator and presidential candidate, was shot during a campaign event in Bogotá, leading to critical injuries. An arrest has been made in connection with the attack. The incident revives memories of political violence linked to drug lords from the past, and the government has condemned the act, calling for an investigation.

Miguel Uribe, a Colombian senator and presidential hopeful, was shot at an event in Bogotá on Saturday. The shooting occurred during a campaign rally in a public park located in the Fontibon neighborhood. Both the government and Uribe’s party, the opposition conservative Democratic Center party, confirmed the incident, which left Uribe critically injured. A suspect has been arrested.

At 39 years old, Uribe is the son of journalist Diana Turbay, who was tragically killed in 1991 during a rescue effort after being kidnapped by Pablo Escobar’s infamous Medellín cartel. The violence surrounding high-profile political figures brings back dark memories of Colombia’s past, particularly the era dominated by drug lords.

Reports indicate this is the first assassination attempt against a notable political figure since the early 1990s, a point noted by CBS News. The attack shocked many, including Uribe’s supporters, as his party close to the decades-long political struggles Colombia has faced under the shadow of narco-terrorism.

Eyewitnesses reported that several armed assailants shot Uribe in the back, leaving him bleeding profusely. Emergency services rushed him to a medical center, where doctors are working hard to stabilize his condition amidst widespread concern. Bogotá’s mayor, Carlos Galan, said that the entire hospital network was on alert, ready to respond to any developments regarding Uribe’s health.

While immediate updates on his condition were scarce, various media outlets suggested that Uribe was in critical condition. The police have confirmed the arrest of one individual linked to the shooting, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the attack.

The Colombian presidency issued a strong statement condemning the violence, asserting it “categorically and forcefully” rejects such acts. President Gustavo Petro expressed his sorrow, stating, “I don’t know how to ease your pain. It is the pain of a mother lost, and of a wounded homeland.”

In summary, Senator Miguel Uribe was shot during a campaign event in Bogotá, leaving him in critical condition. This assassination attempt represents a chilling reminder of Colombia’s violent past associated with drug cartels. Local authorities have apprehended a suspect, and government officials have condemned the attack, pledging to investigate the motives behind it. Uribe’s recovery and the implications of the shooting on Colombia’s political landscape will be closely monitored going forward.

Original Source: www.livemint.com