Pepe Mujica Dies at 89: Life of the World’s Humblest Leader

José “Pepe” Mujica, the beloved former President of Uruguay known as the “world’s poorest president,” died on May 13, 2025, at age 89 after a battle with esophageal cancer that had spread to his liver apnews.com. Uruguay’s President Yamandú Orsi confirmed Mujica’s death, commemorating him as “our comrade” who loved the people deeply reuters.com.

1. From Guerrilla to Head of State

Born May 20, 1935, in Montevideo, Mujica joined the Tupamaros, a left-wing guerrilla group, in the 1960s theguardian.com. He spent roughly 14 years in prison during Uruguay’s 1973–1985 military dictatorship, often in solitary confinement—an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview .

After release in 1985 under a political amnesty, Mujica helped build the leftist Broad Front coalition. He served in government and was elected President of Uruguay (2010–2015) theguardian.com.

2. The “World’s Poorest President”

Mujica’s presidency became synonymous with humility:

He declined the presidential residence, choosing to live in his modest farm home and drive a 1987 Volkswagen Beetle reuters.
He donated roughly 90% of his salary to charity theguardian.com.
Mujica emphasized simple living, famously stating politicians must “live like the people” aljazeera.com.

3. Progressive Reforms & Global Influence

During his presidency, Mujica championed bold reforms:

Legalized same-sex marriage, abortion, and marijuana—groundbreaking moves in Latin America reuters.
Advocated for refugees (e.g., inviting Syrian families) and pushed for environmental initiatives .
As president, he fostered regional integration and influenced global environmental dialogue .

4. Final Years & Passing

Diagnosed with esophageal cancer in April 2024—with spread to his liver by January 2025—Mujica chose to stop treatment reuters. He died peacefully at his Rincón del Cerro home wikipedia.

A state funeral followed, including a horse-drawn carriage procession, public vigil at the legislative palace, and attendance by Brazil’s Lula, Chile’s Boric, and thousands in mourning elpais.

5. A Legacy of Humility & Hope

Mujica’s legacy is rooted in:

Austerity: lived simply, giving voice to economic equality.
Progressivism: led transformative social reforms.
Environmentalism: emphasized planetary and mental well-being .
Democratic values: transcended his guerrilla past to practice reconciliation.

Tributes poured in—Mexico’s Sheinbaum, Colombia’s Petro, and Spain’s Sánchez praised his life and ideals aljazeera.

6. Nuance and Reflections

While widely celebrated, some noted slower poverty reduction and rising crime during his presidency apnews. Nevertheless, his moral authority endured and he remained active in political discourse until his final years.

Final Thoughts

Pepe Mujica’s death marks the end of a life lived with integrity and purpose—transforming from rebel to president while carrying a message of modesty, justice, and hope. His authenticity continues to inspire leaders and individuals worldwide, leaving an enduring imprint on politics, culture, and the human spirit.