Jose “Pepe” Mujica, the former president of Uruguay known globally as the “world’s poorest president” for his austere lifestyle and humble demeanor, has died at the age of 89. His death was confirmed by current President Yamandu Orsi, who praised Mujica’s deep love for the Uruguayan people. Mujica had been battling oesophageal cancer.
A former guerrilla fighter turned statesman, Mujica led Uruguay from 2010 to 2015. During his presidency, he became internationally admired for rejecting the trappings of power, living in a modest farmhouse with his wife, former guerrilla Lucía Topolansky, and donating most of his salary to charity. Often seen driving his battered 1987 Volkswagen Beetle, Mujica once said, “Poor are those who want more,” rejecting the idea that he was impoverished.
Mujica’s life was marked by dramatic transformations. In the 1960s and 70s, he was a leader of the Tupamaros, a leftist urban guerrilla group inspired by the Cuban Revolution. Captured multiple times, he was shot, tortured, and spent over 14 years in prison, much of it in solitary confinement. He was released in 1985 following Uruguay’s return to democracy.
Entering politics formally in the 1990s, Mujica served as a legislator and later as a minister before becoming president. His administration oversaw strong economic growth and progressive reforms. Uruguay became the first country in the world to legalize recreational marijuana, and it also passed landmark laws legalizing abortion and same-sex marriage.
Though widely loved, Mujica’s government faced criticism for rising public spending and ongoing struggles in the education sector. Still, he left office with high approval ratings and remained a global symbol of integrity in leadership.
Mujica retired from politics in 2020 but remained an influential voice in Uruguay and beyond. His successor, Yamandú Orsi, a close ally, was elected president in 2024.
Mujica’s life, from revolutionary to revered leader, stands as a testament to resilience, humility, and an unshakable commitment to social justice.
