Overview

• José Mujica, Uruguay's president from 2010 to 2015, passed away at age 89 after battling esophageal cancer and choosing to halt treatment earlier this year.
• Current President Yamandú Orsi announced Mujica's death and declared a national mourning period, with his body to be laid in state at the parliamentary palace.
• Mujica's presidency was marked by economic growth, poverty reduction, and landmark reforms including legalizing cannabis, same-sex marriage, and abortion.
• Known as the 'poorest president in the world,' Mujica lived on a modest farm, drove an old VW Beetle, and donated most of his salary to social causes.
• Global leaders, including those from Latin America and Europe, have honored Mujica as a moral exemplar and a symbol of integrity, simplicity, and progressive leadership.