Former Uruguayan President Jose Mujica Dies at 89 Amid Battle with Cancer

Uruguay's former President Jose Mujica, known for his humility and progressive politics, has died at the age of 89 after a long battle with oesophageal cancer. The news was confirmed by Uruguay's current President Yamandu Orsi on X, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his "comrade Pepe" and described him as a president, activist, leader and guide.

Mujica's medical team had revealed in 2024 that he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, which later spread to his liver. He chose to stop treatment earlier this year and spent his final days on his farm, where he lived throughout his presidency.

The "world's poorest president" due to his simple lifestyle became a global symbol of simplicity and integrity during his time in office. During his presidency from 2010-2015, Mujica steered Uruguay through economic growth and pushed through some of Latin America's most progressive reforms, including legalizing abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis.

However, Mujica's popularity went far beyond politics. He famously refused to live in the presidential palace and instead stayed at his ramshackle farmhouse with his wife, growing vegetables and donating most of his salary to charity.

Mujica had a tumultuous past as well, being a key figure in the Tupamaros, a leftist guerrilla group that launched an armed rebellion in the 1960s and 70s. He was captured and spent nearly 15 years in prison, much of it in solitary confinement. Despite this adversity, he went on to co-found the Movement of Popular Participation (MPP) and become Uruguay's president.

In a final interview with a local news outlet just days before his death, Mujica revealed that he had accepted the fact that cancer had taken hold within him, stating "I'm doomed, brother. This is as far as I go."

Uruguay mourns the loss of this iconic leader who will be deeply missed by his people and around the world for his courage and conviction.