Tributes have poured in from across Latin America following the death of Jose “Pepe” Mujica, Uruguay’s former president, who passed away at the age of 89 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Widely admired for his humble lifestyle, leftist ideals, and fierce commitment to social justice, Mujica’s passing marks the end of an era for progressives around the world.
Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi, Mujica’s political heir, announced the death on Tuesday, calling him “President, activist, guide and leader. We will miss you greatly, old friend.” In honor of Mujica’s legacy, the Uruguayan government has declared three days of national mourning. His body will lie in state at the legislative palace on Wednesday.
Mujica, who led Uruguay from 2010 to 2015, was affectionately dubbed “the world’s poorest president” for donating most of his salary to charity and continuing to live in a modest farmhouse on the outskirts of Montevideo. Often seen in sandals and driving his beloved 1987 Volkswagen Beetle, Mujica represented a stark contrast to typical world leaders.
A former Marxist guerrilla fighter, Mujica spent 12 years imprisoned, much of it under brutal conditions, during Uruguay’s military dictatorship. He later emerged as a voice of peace and inclusion, co-founding the Movement of Popular Participation (MPP) in 1989 and serving as a congressman, senator, and agriculture minister before his presidency.
During his tenure as president, Mujica spearheaded progressive reforms that transformed Uruguay. He legalized same-sex marriage, abortion, and recreational cannabis, placing Uruguay at the forefront of social liberalism in Latin America.
News of his death prompted a flood of condolences from regional leaders. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva praised his “human greatness” and his ability to unite people. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum called Mujica “an example for Latin America and the entire world.” Bolivia’s Evo Morales and Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed similar sentiments, with Guatemala’s Bernardo Arévalo describing him as “an example of humility and greatness.”
Even China’s foreign ministry offered condolences, calling Mujica a “renowned leader” and “good friend of the Chinese people.”
Despite his legendary reputation, Mujica remained critical of excess and power. A lifelong advocate for modest living, he once said, “I am not poor. Poor are those who need too much.”
In his final months, Mujica continued his political work, campaigning for Orsi even as his esophageal cancer advanced. His wife, Lucia Topolansky, a fellow former guerrilla and senator, confirmed that he had recently entered palliative care.
Mujica is survived by Topolansky. The couple had no children. Fulfilling his final wish, Mujica will be buried on his farm beside his dog and the life of simplicity he cherished.
From prison to presidency, Jose “Pepe” Mujica leaves behind a powerful legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering belief in a more just world.