International Desk, (EFE).- Former Uruguayan President José «Pepe» Mujica died on Tuesday in Montevideo at the age of 89, a year after he was diagnosed with a malignant tumour in his oesophagus.
He fought against the political system, was imprisoned for 14 years but adapted to the rules of the democratic system and became its most popular figure. For decades, his political space has been the most voted and the current president, Yamandú Orsi, his successor, is the most popular.
«It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our comrade Pepe Mujica. President, fighter, referent, and leader. We will miss you dear old man. Thank you for everything you gave us and for your deep love for your people,» Yamandú Orsi said.
Diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2024, Mujica stepped further from public life but remained present in Uruguay’s collective conscience. He served as president from 2010 through 2015.
His frugal lifestyle, sharp reflections, and unwavering commitment to social justice have secured his place as a beloved figure in Latin American history.
Born in 1935 in Montevideo, José “Pepe” Mujica grew up in modest circumstances and was deeply shaped by early struggles and social injustice.
His involvement in politics began through activism and took a radical turn in the 1960s when he joined the leftist guerrilla group MLN-Tupamaros.
His revolutionary actions led to 14 years of imprisonment, much of it in solitary confinement.
“After the death penalty, solitude is one of the harshest punishments,” Mujica once said, reflecting on that time.
After Uruguay returned to democracy in 1985, Mujica transitioned from armed struggle to institutional politics.
Joining the «Frente Amplio» coalition, he quickly rose through the ranks, elected deputy in 1994, senator in 1999, and later agriculture minister.
In 2009, he was elected president, defeating Luis Alberto Lacalle in a runoff. During his presidency (2010–2015), Mujica implemented progressive reforms, positioning Uruguay as a global example in human rights and civil liberties.
Yet, it was his simplicity that captivated the world. “I’m not poor, I’m sober. I live with little so things don’t steal my freedom,” he famously said. EFE
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