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Key Points

A shocking assassination attempt against Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe has sparked international outrage and concern. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly condemned the attack, linking it to dangerous political rhetoric in Colombia. The 39-year-old conservative politician was shot during a campaign event in Bogota, with the suspected attacker quickly arrested. This incident underscores the fragile political landscape in Colombia and raises serious questions about democratic safety and political discourse.

Key Points: Rubio Condemns Assassination Attempt on Colombia's Uribe

  • US condemns assassination attempt on Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe
  • Attack highlights political tensions in Colombia
  • Suspect arrested after shooting at campaign event
  • Incident sparks national and international condemnation
2 min read

Direct threat to democracy, US Secy of State condemns assassination attempt on Colombia's presidential contender

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly criticizes attack on Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe, calls it threat to democracy

"This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric - Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State"

Washington DC, June 8

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday condemned the attempted assassination of Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay.

Rubio directed Colombian President Gustavo Petro to protect the country from leftist "inflamatory rhetoric".

In a post on X, Rubio stated, "The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe. This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government. Having seen firsthand Colombia's progress over the past few decades to consolidate security and democracy, it can't afford to go back to dark days of political violence. President Petro needs to dial back the inflammatory rhetoric and protect Colombian officials. We stand in prayer with Miguel's family, loved ones, and his supporters. Those responsible for this attack must face justice."

https://x.com/SecRubio/status/1931529095222894940

Colombian Senator Uribe, in the running to join next year's presidential race, was shot at an event in Bogota, according to national police, CNN reported.

The 39-year-old, from the conservative Centro Democratico - or Democratic Center - one of the biggest opposition parties in the South American nation, had expressed his intention to run in next year's election, as per CNN.

"Armed individuals shot him in the back while he was participating in a campaign event at around 5:00 pm," the party said in a statement.

Bogota Mayor Carlos Galan said Uribe was receiving emergency care after being attacked in the capital's Fontibon district, and the suspected attacker had been arrested.

The attack drew condemnation from the Colombian government and Centro Democratico, as well as former presidents and other regional leaders.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed his solidarity with the senator's family in a post on X, saying: "I don't know how to ease your pain. It is the pain of a mother lost, and of a wounded homeland."

https://x.com/petrogustavo/status/1931500641194479719

The Colombian foreign ministry called the attack "a direct affront to democracy, respect for differences, and the free exercise of politics in our country." It called on the authorities to "to fully clarify this serious incident."

https://x.com/CancilleriaCol/status/1931522191109337166

Centro Democratico called the shooting "an unacceptable act of violence."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is truly shocking! Political violence has no place in any democracy. As Indians who've seen our own share of political assassinations, we know how destabilizing this can be. Hope Colombia remains strong and the perpetrator is brought to justice swiftly. 🇮🇳🤝🇨🇴
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Priya M.
While the US condemnation is welcome, I find it ironic how they lecture others about democracy when their own political rhetoric has been so divisive in recent years. Every country must find its own path to stability without foreign interference.
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Arjun S.
Reminds me of our own Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi tragedies. Political violence only breeds more violence. Colombia must learn from India's experience - strengthen security for all leaders regardless of ideology. Democracy is fragile everywhere.
S
Sunita R.
The US Secretary's statement seems to take sides by blaming "leftist rhetoric" specifically. In a democracy, all sides must be protected equally. Hope the Colombian government conducts a fair investigation without external pressure. 🙏
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Vikram J.
As someone who follows Latin American politics, Colombia has made remarkable progress against drug cartels and FARC rebels. This incident shouldn't undo decades of progress. The international community should offer support, not just criticism.
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Neha P.
The Colombian President's response seems heartfelt. In difficult times, leaders must rise above politics. Hope the country unites against this violence. From India, we send prayers for the senator's recovery and Colombia's democratic stability.

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