Uribe Turbay dies after campaign rally shooting

Miguel Uribe Turbay, a 39-year-old senator and presidential hopeful, died two months after being shot at a campaign rally in Bogota.

Uribe Turbay dies after campaign rally shooting in Bogota

Miguel Uribe Turbay, a senator from the Democratic Centre Party and a presidential candidate, was shot in the head and leg on 7 June at a park in the Fontibon district of Bogota. He underwent several surgeries before dying early on Monday at Santa Fe Foundation hospital, with his wife confirming the death. A teenage suspect was arrested at the scene and authorities have since detained additional people.

The attack has sparked renewed concern over the safety of politicians in Colombia and the protection afforded to public figures at political events. Uribe Turbay came from a family with a long political footprint and had publicly criticized the administration of leftist President Gustavo Petro.

The death underscores the fragility of public spaces as arenas for democratic competition in Colombia. It raises questions about how security is planned for campaign events and what steps are needed to protect candidates, staff, and voters. The incident could intensify political polarization if parties use it to push competing security or reform agendas.

Uribe Turbay’s lineage links him to Colombia’s turbulent political history, and his death may fuel a broader debate about the country’s readiness to shield public life from violence. How authorities respond in the coming weeks could shape the atmosphere around elections and voter confidence in the state’s ability to guarantee safe political participation.

Highlights

The country faces a moment to reinforce safety for those who participate in public life.