Uribe was gravely injured during a campaign rally on June 7 in Bogotá when he was struck by three bullets—two in the head and one in the leg. His passing at the age of 39 was confirmed by his wife, who shared heartfelt tributes online, describing him as "the love of my life" and a dedicated father.
In the aftermath of the attack, a 15-year-old suspect was apprehended fleeing the scene, while others have been detained for possible complicity. Uribe had undergone multiple surgeries following the shooting, with a recent hospital statement indicating a bleed in his central nervous system. Thousands of Colombians had flocked to vigils and rallies in hopes of his recovery.
Uribe, aligned with the right-wing Democratic Centre party, was gearing up for a 2026 presidential run and was gaining traction in opinion polls. His outspoken criticism of current left-wing president Gustavo Petro garnered him substantial support. Following the news of Uribe's death, Petro's administration extended condolences to his family.
The senator's demise evokes memories of Colombia's violent past in the late 20th century, when numerous political figures were assassinated. Uribe, influenced by his mother’s tragic kidnapping and murder by drug lords, often cited her as motivation for his political endeavors.
While Colombia has witnessed improvements in security, with the murder rate dropping to 25.4 per 100,000 in 2024, violence against political figures, unionists, and social leaders continues to pose significant threats.
In the wake of Uribe's killing, analysts suggest a potential shift towards right-wing politics, as the narrative of security reignites. Vice-President Francia Márquez has called for unity against violence, asserting that "democracy is built with respect, dialogue, and differences."
The impact of Uribe's death resonates beyond Colombia, drawing commentary from international figures seeking justice for his murder.
In the aftermath of the attack, a 15-year-old suspect was apprehended fleeing the scene, while others have been detained for possible complicity. Uribe had undergone multiple surgeries following the shooting, with a recent hospital statement indicating a bleed in his central nervous system. Thousands of Colombians had flocked to vigils and rallies in hopes of his recovery.
Uribe, aligned with the right-wing Democratic Centre party, was gearing up for a 2026 presidential run and was gaining traction in opinion polls. His outspoken criticism of current left-wing president Gustavo Petro garnered him substantial support. Following the news of Uribe's death, Petro's administration extended condolences to his family.
The senator's demise evokes memories of Colombia's violent past in the late 20th century, when numerous political figures were assassinated. Uribe, influenced by his mother’s tragic kidnapping and murder by drug lords, often cited her as motivation for his political endeavors.
While Colombia has witnessed improvements in security, with the murder rate dropping to 25.4 per 100,000 in 2024, violence against political figures, unionists, and social leaders continues to pose significant threats.
In the wake of Uribe's killing, analysts suggest a potential shift towards right-wing politics, as the narrative of security reignites. Vice-President Francia Márquez has called for unity against violence, asserting that "democracy is built with respect, dialogue, and differences."
The impact of Uribe's death resonates beyond Colombia, drawing commentary from international figures seeking justice for his murder.
