Uruguay’s Ex-President Mujica, ‘World’s Poorest President,’ Dies at 89

Former Uruguayan President José “Pepe” Mujica has died at 89 after battling cancer. A former guerrilla fighter, Mujica was celebrated for his humility, progressive reforms, and simple lifestyle, donating most of his salary and living on a modest farm.
Latin American leaders mourned his passing, with Uruguay declaring three days of national mourning. As president (2010–2015), Mujica legalized abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis, earning global admiration as a symbol of modest leadership and social justice.