Jos Mujica, Uruguays modest leader who transformed the country, dies at 89
CNNMAY 10
Uruguay's Former President Mujica Dies at 89
Above: Former President of Uruguay José "Pepe" Mujica smiles after receiving a tribute during the 54th anniversary of the Frente Amplio political coalition on March 26, 2025, in Montevideo. Image copyright: Ernesto Ryan/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Mujica will be deeply missed on the world stage. He was one of a kind and an inspiration to everyone regardless of political ideologies for his humble and sober lifestyle. On top of that, it is remarkable that Uruguay underwent an economic expansion alongside several progressive reforms under his watch.
Right narrative
Mujica has long been a controversial figure despite legacy media painting him as one of the best politicians in the world. Make no mistake, the now-late Uruguayan president was part of a terrorist organization in his early adulthood and was used to relativize its violence. While he later transitioned into a role of democratic leadership, he never explicitly apologized for his criminal actions.