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Uruguay Mourns José Mujica, Iconic Former President and Guerrilla Fighter, Dead at 89

The revered leader, known for his humility and transformative reforms, passed away after a battle with cancer; his coffin lies in state as tributes pour in worldwide.

FILE - Uruguay's President Jose Mujica poses for a photo with his dog, Manuela, at his home on the outskirts of Montevideo, Uruguay, May 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico, File)
FILE - Presidential candidate Jose Mujica drinks mate during a closing campaign rally in Pando, Uruguay, Oct. 22, 2009. (AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico, File)
Supporters walk behind the casket of Uruguay's former President Jose Mujica during his funeral procession from the presidential palace to the National Assembly in Montevideo, Uruguay, Wednesday, May 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Santiago Mazzarovich)
FILE - TO HOLD - Uruguay's former President Jose Mujica arrives to cast his vote in Montevideo, Uruguay, Oct. 26, 2014. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko, File)

Overview

  • José Mujica, Uruguay's former president (2010–2015) and ex-Tupamaros guerrilla, died at 89 after battling esophageal cancer that had spread to his liver.
  • President Yamandu Orsi declared three days of national mourning, with Mujica’s coffin lying in state at the legislative palace in Montevideo to honor his legacy.
  • Mujica was celebrated globally for his modest lifestyle, rejecting opulence for his small farm and donating most of his salary to charity, earning him the title of 'world’s poorest president.'
  • During his presidency, Mujica spearheaded progressive reforms, including legalizing abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis, positioning Uruguay as a social-liberal pioneer.
  • World leaders from Latin America and beyond, including those from Mexico, Brazil, and Spain, praised Mujica as an enduring symbol of humility, wisdom, and progressive values.