Colombian candidate in 'grave' condition

Hit attempt 'a direct threat to democracy'

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A prominent Colombian presidential candidate was in “grave” condition and “fighting for his life” in hospital on Sunday, after an alleged teen gunman shot him twice in the head at a Bogota campaign rally.

Thirty-nine-year-old right-wing Senator Miguel Uribe underwent successful initial surgery to contain injuries from Saturday's attack, but doctors warned his life was still in serious peril.

He remains in “the most grave condition and the prognosis is reserved” said medics at the capital's Santa Fe Clinic.

Mr Uribe’s shooting has utterly shocked a nation that had believed decades of bloody political and narco violence were largely in the past.

Hundreds took to the streets in major cities on Sunday to light candles, pray and voice their anger at the attack.

“Our hearts are broken, Colombia hurts,” Carolina Gomez, a 41-year-old businesswoman, told AFP as she lit candles and prayed outside the hospital where Mr Uribe was being treated.

The crowd joined together in cries of “strength to you Miguel” and “the people are with you.”