Former Uruguayan President Jose "Pepe" Mujica, famously known as the "world's poorest president," has died at the age of 89 following a battle with cancer, officials announced on Tuesday.
Mujica, who served as Uruguay's president from 2010 to 2015, revealed in January that his cancer had advanced and he would no longer pursue treatment. The former guerrilla fighter had spent over a decade in prison for his revolutionary activities before rising to the country's highest office.
Uruguay's current President, Yamandu Orsi, confirmed the death on social media platform X: "With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our comrade Pepe Mujica - president, activist, guide, and leader. We will miss you dearly, old friend."
The Uruguayan government has declared three days of national mourning and announced that Mujica's body will lie in state at the legislative palace starting Wednesday, allowing citizens to pay their respects.
Mujica earned international recognition for his humble lifestyle, donating about 90% of his presidential salary to charity and continuing to live on his modest farm with his wife, Lucia Topolansky, a fellow ex-guerrilla, and his three-legged dog rather than in the presidential palace.
Supporters and activists from Mujica's Movement of Popular Participation (MPP) gathered outside the party's headquarters following the announcement, displaying banners with the message, "Hasta siempre, viejo querido" (Until forever, old friend).
Leaders across Latin America and beyond have paid tribute to the former president. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called him "an example for Latin America and the entire world," while Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said in a statement: "His human greatness transcended the borders of Uruguay and his presidential mandate. The wisdom of his words formed a true song of unity and fraternity for Latin America."
During his presidency, Mujica was praised for his efforts to combat poverty but faced criticism for failing to control public spending. His administration was also known for progressive policies, including the legalization of marijuana.
Mujica is survived by his wife Topolansky. The couple had no children. According to reports, Mujica had requested to be buried on his farm, next to his dog, reflecting the simple life he championed even after holding his country's highest office.
