Tributes flooded in from across Latin America on Tuesday as Uruguay mourned the death of its beloved former president, José “Pepe” Mujica, at age 89. A former guerrilla turned statesman, Mujica was admired for his modest lifestyle and progressive vision, becoming a symbol of integrity and humility in global politics.
Mujica passed away after announcing in January that he would stop cancer treatment. His death marks the end of a remarkable life — from being jailed and tortured for 12 years during Uruguay’s dictatorship to becoming president (2010–2015), where he famously donated most of his salary and lived on a farm with his wife and three-legged dog.
He transformed Uruguay with landmark reforms, including legalising abortion, same-sex marriage, and cannabis, earning global praise. Leaders from Brazil, Mexico, Spain, and China honoured his legacy, describing him as a humanist, example of humility, and voice for unity.
Despite his revolutionary past with the Tupamaros, Mujica emerged as a powerful democratic figure, continuing to support the left even after his cancer diagnosis. His death leaves a profound impact, but his legacy endures in the hearts of millions who saw in him a leader who truly lived like the people he served.
As president, he was praised for his fight against poverty but criticised for failing to rein in public spending.
He is survived by his wife, Topolansky. They had no children.
