Did Uruguay's Iconic Ex-President Jose Mujica Pass Away at 89?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The world mourns the loss of Jose Mujica, the beloved former President of Uruguay, who passed away at 89. Known for his humble lifestyle and progressive reforms, Mujica's legacy as an advocate for the marginalized lives on. His journey from guerrilla fighter to President inspired many, shaping the political landscape of Uruguay and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Jose Mujica was known for his humble lifestyle and dedication to social causes.
- He implemented significant reforms such as same-sex marriage and abortion legalization.
- Mujica's political career began with the Tupamaros guerrilla group.
- He endured torture and imprisonment during Uruguay’s military dictatorship.
- His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Montevideo, May 14 (NationPress) Former Uruguayan President Jose "Pepe" Mujica, revered as the "world's poorest President", has passed away at the age of 89 in Montevideo, as confirmed by President Yamandu Orsi.
Mujica revealed in January that his esophageal cancer, initially diagnosed in April 2024, had metastasized to his liver. He decided against further treatment.
"With profound sadness, we announce the loss of our comrade Pepe Mujica - a President, activist, leader, and mentor. We will miss you dearly, old friend. Thank you for everything you gave us and for your profound love for your people," Orsi wrote on social media.
In a conversation with the local weekly Busqueda, Mujica stated, "This is the end of the road for me," expressing his desire to be left in peace and wishing to be buried at his farm near Montevideo, according to Xinhua news agency.
Mujica, widely recognized as the “world’s poorest President” for donating the majority of his salary to charitable causes during his term from 2010 to 2015, had been battling advanced cancer.
In May 2024, doctors identified the spread of cancer from his esophagus to his liver. His wife, former senator and Vice President Lucía Topolansky, confirmed this week that he was receiving palliative care.
A prominent figure in progressive politics across Latin America, Mujica was instrumental in transforming Uruguay through landmark reforms such as the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis. Even post-presidency, he tirelessly advocated for Leftist causes until his health began to deteriorate.
His political journey commenced in the 1960s when he co-founded the Tupamaros, a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla organization known for robbing the wealthy to assist the underprivileged. The group later escalated to kidnappings, bombings, and assassinations. Mujica's life was defined by perilous adventures, surviving multiple gunshot wounds and participating in a dramatic mass prison escape.
After the Tupamaros collapsed in 1972, he was recaptured and endured the entirety of Uruguay’s military dictatorship from 1973 to 1985 in prison, where he faced torture and prolonged solitary confinement.
Upon his release, he transitioned to democratic politics, establishing the Movement of Popular Participation (MPP) in 1989, which evolved into the largest faction within the Broad Front, Uruguay’s Left-wing coalition.
He was elected to parliament in 1995 and became a senator in 2000. In 2005, he was appointed Minister of Agriculture in the nation’s inaugural leftist government. In 2010, he ascended to the presidency, serving a single five-year term in accordance with Uruguay's constitutional limitations.
Mujica, who did not have children, is survived by his wife and lifelong political partner, Lucía Topolansky.
Point of View
I believe that Jose Mujica's life encapsulates the spirit of resilience and determination. His remarkable journey from the struggles of a guerrilla fighter to becoming a beloved leader is a testament to the power of hope and compassion. Mujica's passing leaves a profound void in progressive politics, but his legacy will inspire generations to come.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Mujica's major contributions as President?
Jose Mujica's major contributions included landmark reforms like the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage, and the regulation of recreational cannabis, which transformed Uruguay's social landscape.
How did Mujica earn the title of 'world's poorest President'?
Mujica earned the title for his decision to donate most of his presidential salary to charitable causes, living a simple life while in office.
What was Mujica's political background?
Mujica began his political career in the 1960s as a co-founder of the Tupamaros guerrilla group, later transitioning to democratic politics after spending years in prison during a military dictatorship.
What health challenges did Mujica face?
Mujica faced significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of advanced esophageal cancer, which ultimately spread to his liver, leading to his decision to cease treatment.
Who survives Jose Mujica?
Jose Mujica is survived by his wife and political partner, Lucía Topolansky.
