Uruguay Mourns Former President José Mujica in Heartfelt Farewell

Former President José Mujica of Uruguay was honored in a poignant funeral procession in Montevideo, drawing thousands of mourners. Known for his humble lifestyle and progressive policies, Mujica passed away at 89. President Yamandú Orsi declared national mourning in his memory, highlighting Mujica’s influential legacy.

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, mourners from all over Uruguay gathered in Montevideo to honor former President José Mujica, who passed away at the age of 89. Known affectionately as “Pepe,” Mujica was a beloved figure, remembered for his authentic lifestyle and commitment to leftist ideals. His funeral procession, featuring his flag-draped coffin on a gun carriage, wound through downtown Montevideo, drawing thousands of supporters who bid their final farewells.

The crowds chanted, “Pepe, dear, the people are with you!” as the procession made its way from the presidential palace to the National Assembly—a journey that lasted about three hours. Mujica had lived simply in a three-room farmhouse near Montevideo, even during his time as president from 2010 to 2015, consciously choosing to reject the lavish presidential palace.

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi, who has been heavily influenced by Mujica’s approach, declared national days of mourning from Wednesday to Friday in honor of his late mentor. Orsi’s decree praised Mujica’s “humanist philosophy,” and during this time, the government reduced operations to essential services, while flags were flown at half-staff across the nation.

Orsi, who shares Mujica’s humble values, launched the funeral procession alongside current and former officials and Mujica’s partner, Lucía Topolansky. The ceremony began privately at the presidential headquarters, where they covered Mujica’s coffin with a national flag in a heartfelt tribute to the man who shaped modern Uruguayan politics.

Mujica, who would have turned 90 next week, was revered both at home and internationally, notably for his leadership in legalizing same-sex marriage, marijuana, and for establishing comprehensive abortion rights. His tenure also marked a shift towards renewable energies for Uruguay.

His earlier life included a notable shift from a revolutionary background as a member of the Tupamaros, a guerrilla group known for bank robberies and bombings during the 1960s, to a peaceful political career. Diagnosed with esophageal cancer in April 2024, Mujica’s life story remains a testament to transformation on both a personal and national level.

The farewell to José Mujica underscores his significant impact on Uruguayan society and political landscape. His enduring legacy, characterized by simplicity and progressive reforms, will likely resonate with future generations. As the nation mourns his passing, the collective memory of ‘Pepe’ as a leader who championed social justice and lived by his principles appears firmly etched in the hearts of many Uruguayans.

Original Source: apnews.com