Colombian politics has been shaken by the death of 39-year-old Senator Miguel Uribe, a rising star and 2026 presidential contender, who succumbed to injuries two months after being shot in the head during a campaign rally.
Uribe was struck by three bullets — two to the head and one to the leg — on 7 June in Bogotá. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries at the Santa Fe clinic, doctors confirmed he died from severe central nervous system damage.
His wife, María Claudia Tarazona, called him “the love of my life” and “the best father,” thanking him for “a life full of love.”
A 15-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, pleading not guilty, while several others are accused of aiding him. Authorities have not confirmed a motive.
Uribe, a senator since 2022 from the right-wing Democratic Centre party, was a vocal critic of leftist President Gustavo Petro. His assassination attempt revived painful memories of Colombia’s violent political past, echoing the killings of prominent leaders in the 1980s and 90s.
Uribe’s mother, journalist Diana Turbay, was kidnapped and killed by drug cartel alliance Los Extraditables in 1990 — a tragedy he often cited as his inspiration for public service.
President Petro, Vice-President Francia Márquez, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have condemned the attack, urging unity and justice.
