Former Uruguayan President Pepe Mujica Dead at 89

José "Pepe" Mujica, the former president of Uruguay, renowned for his humility and progressive leadership, passed away on May 13, 2025, at the age of 89. Diagnosed with esophageal cancer in April 2024, Mujica chose to forego further treatment as his condition worsened, ultimately succumbing to the illness at his farmhouse in Rincón del Cerro, Montevideo.

Born on May 20, 1935, in Montevideo, Mujica's early life was marked by political activism. In the 1960s, he joined the Tupamaros, a leftist guerrilla group inspired by the Cuban Revolution. His involvement led to his imprisonment for nearly 15 years under Uruguay's military dictatorship, during which he endured solitary confinement and torture.

Following his release in 1985, Mujica transitioned into formal politics, co-founding the Movement of Popular Participation (MPP) within the Broad Front coalition. He served as a deputy, senator, and Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries before being elected president in 2009. His presidency from 2010 to 2015 was characterized by significant social reforms, including the legalization of same-sex marriage, abortion, and the regulation of marijuana.

Mujica's austere lifestyle garnered international attention. He donated around 90% of his presidential salary to charities supporting the poor and small entrepreneurs. Eschewing the presidential palace, he resided on his modest farm with his wife, Lucía Topolansky, also a former guerrilla and senator. His transportation of choice was a 1987 Volkswagen Beetle, symbolizing his commitment to simplicity.

Beyond his political achievements, Mujica was celebrated for his philosophical reflections on life and happiness. He often emphasized the importance of living with less and focusing on what truly matters, stating, "We are too focused on wealth and not on happiness... Before you know it, life has passed you by."

In his final months, Mujica remained a vocal advocate for democracy and social equity. He supported the Broad Front's candidate, Yamandú Orsi, in the 2024 elections, describing Orsi's victory as a "farewell gift." His death prompted tributes from global leaders, including Uruguay's President Orsi, who honored him as a "president, militant, leader, and guide."