José "Pepe" Mujica, the former president of Uruguay, has died at the age of 89. Current Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi confirmed the news and shared a heartfelt message on the social media platform X. Mujica's passing has sent shockwaves throughout the nation and across the region, where he was celebrated as a symbol of integrity, consistency, and social commitment.
President Orsi expressed his sorrow, saying, "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our comrade Pepe Mujica. President, activist, leader, and guide. We will miss you dearly, dear old friend. Thank you for everything you gave us and for your profound love for your people." Orsi, often seen as Mujica's political successor within the Broad Front, shared this message with the public.
Mujica's health had declined significantly due to esophageal cancer, diagnosed in April 2024. On the previous Sunday, during regional elections, both his wife, former Vice President Lucía Topolansky, and President Orsi made statements that anticipated this outcome.
Topolansky was candid in her comments to Radio Sarandí. "The current situation is terminal," she stated, emphasizing that they were doing everything possible to ensure Mujica lived "the last phase of his life as comfortably as possible." Meanwhile, President Orsi urged for privacy and respect for the former leader, saying, "We must all contribute to ensuring dignity at every stage of life, and we should not disturb him. Let's allow him peace."
Mujica passed away at his beloved farm in Rincón del Cerro, where he had resided for decades, living true to his philosophy of a simple life, distanced from material wealth.
Tributes from Sports to Politics
In the sports arena, the Club Nacional de Football, a prominent Uruguayan soccer club, was among the first to express condolences: "Following the passing of former President José Mujica, the Club Nacional de Football extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and close associates."
More organizations, political figures, and social leaders, both from Uruguay and abroad, are expected to share their tributes and messages of honor in the coming hours.
A Leader Beyond Generations
José Mujica served as Uruguay's president from 2010 to 2015, steering a groundbreaking progressive agenda in the region. He championed historic reforms, including the legalization of same-sex marriage, the decriminalization of abortion, cannabis regulation, and social inclusion policies.
Nevertheless, his most enduring legacy is tied to his personal ethics. As a former Tupamaro guerrilla, Mujica spent nearly 13 years imprisoned during the military dictatorship. After his release, he chose a democratic path, rising to become a parliamentarian, minister, president, and, above all, an ethical beacon for many generations.
Internationally acknowledged as "the world's poorest president," Mujica consistently chose a life of austerity: living on his farm, donating a significant portion of his salary, and traveling without escorts or privileges.
A Nuanced Relationship with Cuba
Throughout his life, Mujica maintained a complex but respectful relationship with Cuba. In his youth, he fervently supported the revolutionary process, but his views evolved over time.
In a November 2022 interview on the program "Mejor hablar" on Canal 24 Horas, Mujica remarked that Cuba "appears to be changing," when discussing Latin American dictatorships. However, in November 2024, during an interview with El País, he strongly criticized the regimes in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, stating, "That doesn't work," in reference to politics and democracy in those nations.
Despite his critiques, Mujica maintained respect for Cuban leaders. He personally visited Fidel Castro in January 2016 during a trip to Havana.
This story is developing. We will continue to provide updates, international reactions, and details about the official wake and tribute.
Key Questions About José Mujica's Legacy
What were José Mujica's major contributions as Uruguay's president?
José Mujica is renowned for his progressive policies, which included the legalization of same-sex marriage, the decriminalization of abortion, cannabis regulation, and the promotion of social inclusion.
How did José Mujica live his life after his presidency?
After his presidency, José Mujica continued to live a life of simplicity and austerity on his farm, donating much of his salary and traveling without the trappings of power.
What was José Mujica's relationship with Cuba?
José Mujica had a nuanced relationship with Cuba. He initially supported its revolutionary ideals but later adopted a more critical stance, although he maintained respect for its leaders.