Former Uruguayan president and revered statesman Jose “Pepe” Mujica has died at the age of 89, following a battle with cancer.
Mujica, a former guerrilla fighter turned global symbol of humility and progressive leadership, passed away on Tuesday, months after announcing in January that his illness had advanced and he would forgo further treatment.
Uruguay’s current President Yamandú Orsi paid tribute on social media, writing: “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our comrade Pepe Mujica — president, activist, guide, and leader. We will miss you dearly, old friend.”
Widely admired for his modest lifestyle, Mujica served as Uruguay’s president from 2010 to 2015, earning the nickname “the world’s poorest president” after donating most of his salary to charity and living on a small farmhouse with his wife — fellow ex-revolutionary Lucía Topolansky — and his beloved three-legged dog.
In his memory, the government has declared three days of national mourning. His body will lie in state at the Legislative Palace beginning Wednesday, as citizens and admirers prepare to pay their final respects.
Crowds gathered outside the headquarters of Mujica’s Movement of Popular Participation (MPP), waving banners reading “Hasta siempre, viejo querido” — “Until forever, old friend.”
International tributes poured in, with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum calling him “an example for Latin America and the entire world,” while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva praised Mujica’s “human greatness” and called his words “a song of unity and fraternity for Latin America.”
Despite criticisms during his presidency over rising public spending, Mujica remained beloved for his authenticity, progressive policies, and unwavering commitment to social justice.
He is survived by his wife. As per his wishes, he will be buried on his farm, beside his loyal dog — a fitting resting place for a man who lived and led with extraordinary simplicity.
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