Former President José Mujica passed away at 89, prompting national mourning in Uruguay. Thousands attended his funeral procession from the presidential palace to the National Assembly, celebrating his legacy of humility and progressive reforms. President Yamandú Orsi declared days of mourning, emphasizing Mujica’s enduring influence as a leader. Mujica is remembered for significant social changes, transitioning from a guerrilla fighter to a beloved president who championed liberal policies. His life story remains a source of inspiration in Uruguay and beyond.
Mourners gathered in large numbers throughout Uruguay on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, to pay their last respects to José Mujica, the nation’s iconic former president. Known for his humble lifestyle and deep ideological convictions, Mujica passed away at the age of 89 in his modest home on the outskirts of Montevideo, the city where he led the country from 2010 to 2015. His passing marks the end of an era for many Uruguayans, who affectionately referred to him as “Pepe.”
Thousands filled the streets of Montevideo as Mujica’s coffin, draped in the national flag, was carried on a gun carriage through the bustling city. The funeral procession took approximately three hours, winding its way from the presidential palace to the National Assembly. As the cortege progressed, supporters erupted in chants of “Pepe, dear, the people are with you!” while others applauded from balconies, showcasing the profound impact he had on the nation.
In recognition of Mujica’s contributions, President Yamandú Orsi, a long-time ally and protégé, declared a national period of mourning lasting from Wednesday through Friday. In his decree, Orsi praised Mujica’s “humanist philosophy.” He ordered flags to fly at half-staff and curtailed government operations, save for essential functions, to honor the former leader. Orsi, who refers to his own home instead of the presidential palace, seeks to exemplify Mujica’s legacy of simplicity.
The initial part of the funeral was observed privately at the presidential palace, where Orsi and other officials honored Mujica with a solemn tribute, covering the coffin with a silver silk flag. Among those accompanying the procession was Mujica’s spouse and fellow politician, Lucía Topolansky, a significant figure herself in Uruguayan politics.
As the public gathered, their sentiment was palpable, mourning a leader who was not only beloved but transformative. Mujica was known internationally for progressive laws during his presidency, such as legalizing same-sex marriage and abortion rights, as well as pioneering marijuana legalization, positioning Uruguay at the forefront of social liberalism in Latin America.
Yet, Mujica’s life began in a starkly different reality. In the 1960s, before transitioning to statesmanship, he had a tumultuous past as part of the Tupamaros, a radical leftist guerrilla group that engaged in bank robberies and kidnappings. After being incarcerated for several years, Mujica’s political evolution turned him into a revered figure in modern democracy.
Mujica was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in April 2024 and had been relatively private in his later years, making his recent public appearances—including voting for Orsi—some of the last glimpses the country had of him before his passing.
The nation of Uruguay has come together in remembrance of José Mujica, who is seen not just as a former president, but a symbol of humility and progressive ideals. His death has prompted a nationwide mourning period, reflecting the lasting influence he had on both national and international fronts. As Uruguay honors his legacy, many reflect on the impactful achievements of a leader who transitioned from guerrilla to statesman, a journey that has left an indelible mark on the country.
Original Source: apnews.com
