Uruguay Bids Farewell to José Mujica, the World’s “Poorest President”

Thousands of Uruguayans filled the streets of Montevideo on May 14 to pay their final respects to former President José Mujica, a beloved national figure often referred to as “the world’s poorest president.”

Mujica passed away on May 13 at the age of 89 after a battle with cancer. His funeral procession drew emotional crowds, many lining the route in tears. “He made the world see us,” said Sonya Acosta, one of the mourners. “He gave everything during his presidency.”

Mujica served as Uruguay’s president from 2010 to 2015 and earned global admiration for his humility, progressive leadership, and outspoken criticism of consumerism. He signed landmark legislation legalizing same-sex marriage and early-term abortion, bold moves in a region heavily influenced by Catholic values.

“In a way, it feels like we've lost a source of inspiration—someone who reminded us every day that a different kind of world was possible,” said Montevideo resident Robert Martinez.

Before his presidency, Mujica was a guerrilla fighter in the 1960s and 70s. He was imprisoned from 1973 to 1985, enduring torture and solitary confinement. After his release, he turned to politics and co-founded the Popular Participation Movement (MPP), which became the largest faction in Uruguay’s leftist coalition.

Mujica was elected to parliament in 1995, became a senator in 2000, and later served as Minister of Agriculture in Uruguay’s first left-wing government.

His reputation as the “poorest president” stemmed from his decision to donate most of his salary to charity and live simply on a modest farm with his wife. Despite his humble lifestyle, Mujica left behind a legacy of progressive change, compassion, and unwavering authenticity.

(Source: Reuters)

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