Ex-Colombian President Denounces Government Approach to National Security

(MENAFN) Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe Vélez has sharply condemned the current administration’s approach to national security following a violent assault on Senator Miguel Uribe. He also raised alarms about ongoing assassination threats targeting himself.

“While Miguel Uribe fights for his life, the government seems preoccupied with other matters. They propose agreements to prevent new massacres, yet international intelligence has informed me of another assassination plot against me,” Uribe declared on X this Monday.

Senator Miguel Uribe, a leading conservative and presidential contender, remains in critical condition after sustaining a close-range gunshot to the head during a campaign event in Bogotá over the weekend.

The 39-year-old lawmaker underwent emergency brain surgery but has exhibited only limited signs of recovery.

Law enforcement officials apprehended a 15-year-old suspect at the attack site, who is currently receiving treatment for a leg wound. This brazen act has intensified fears of mounting political violence in Colombia.

In response, Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez Suárez announced a substantial reward of 3 billion pesos (about $730,000) for information leading to the arrest of those responsible.

"Security measures have been heightened to the maximum level. A reward will be given to those who provide accurate and timely information that enables us to recognize and neutralize any threat to our political leaders in advance."

"An attack on a political leader, regardless of ideology or party affiliation, is a direct attack on our democracy,” Sánchez Suárez emphasized.

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