Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Dies After June Shooting

story

2 days ago

Above: A woman holds a Colombian flag with the image of Miguel Uribe during a mass for his health in Bogotá on June 21, 2025. Image copyright: Luis Acosta/AFP/Getty Images

story last updated 22 hrs ago

The Spin

Narrative A

This is a devastating blow to Colombian democracy and a return to the dark days of political violence that plagued the nation in the 1980s and 1990s. The targeted killing of a prominent opposition leader just months before presidential elections sends a chilling message that bullets, not ballots, might once again determine Colombia's political future. The attack on Uribe shows how criminal groups are actively working to destabilize the electoral process and silence democratic voices.

Colombia One International Center for Transitional Justice

Narrative B

While tragic, this incident highlights the broader security challenges facing all Colombians, not just politicians, as the country grapples with ongoing violence from various criminal groups. The government has consistently condemned political violence and increased security measures for both officials and opposition leaders following the attack. President Petro's administration has been working toward comprehensive peace agreements to address the root causes of violence that have plagued Colombia for decades.

Al Jazeera Colombia Reports