(MENAFN) Uruguay’s ex-president, Jose “Pepe” Mujica, widely admired for his modest way of living and forward-thinking leadership, has passed away at the age of 89. In recent weeks, Mujica’s health had deteriorated due to a cancer diagnosis, which had entered its final stage.

His passing was made public on Tuesday by Uruguay’s current president, Yamandu Orsi.

"With deep pain, we announce that our comrade Pepe Mujica has passed away," Orsi wrote on X.

He went on to honor Mujica as a "President, activist, a guiding figure, and a driving force," adding, "We are going to miss you, dear old man. Thank you for everything you taught us and for your profound love for your people."

Mujica was born on May 20, 1935, and was one of the founders of the Movimiento de Liberacion Nacional-Tupamaros (MLN-T) in the 1960s.

This urban rebel group took inspiration from the Cuban revolution. His political activism led to his capture in 1970, followed by an escape, and a second arrest in 1972.

Mujica spent 13 years behind bars, enduring torture and brutal living conditions, often confined in solitary cells or cages.

He regained freedom in 1985 after a political amnesty, which came with the fall of Uruguay’s military dictatorship.

Following his release, Mujica re-entered political life. He held positions as a legislator and later a senator.

In 2005, during the first administration of the Frente Amplio — Uruguay’s progressive political alliance — he was appointed Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries, paving the way for his eventual presidency.

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