José Mujica Reflects on Life, Mortality, and Democracy in His Final Days
In a heartfelt interview with Uruguayan weekly Búsqueda on January 7, 2025, former president José Mujica revealed the devastating impact of spreading esophageal cancer, expressing a poignant farewell to his compatriots. Seated in the familiar comfort of his ranch in Rincón del Cerro, an emotional Mujica, who has been battling cancer since April 2024, shared his desire for peace in the face of his terminal illness.
"I am dying," Mujica said, tears in his eyes, revealing that the disease has begun to affect his liver and he can no longer undergo any biochemical treatment or surgery. At 89 years old, and with two chronic conditions, he faces the grim reality of his health. "I am condemned, brother. This is where I’ve reached," he stated, demonstrating remarkable fortitude and acceptance of his fate.
Mujica, known for his humility and deep love for his native Uruguay, expressed his utmost respect for all Uruguayans, urging for tolerance even among those with differing opinions. "It’s easy to have respect for those who think like you, but we must learn that the foundation of democracy is respect for those who think differently. That’s why the first category is my compatriots and I say goodbye to them. I give a hug to everyone," he explained with sincerity.
Despite his gratitude for the life he has lived, the former guerrilla fighter harbored regrets about the persistent issue of hunger in his country during his presidency: "I was president and in this country, there are people who go hungry. It shouldn’t be," Mujica lamented, emphasizing his evolution in understanding democracy as the most crucial element for society. "Nothing is like democracy. I didn’t think this way when I was young, it’s true, but now I fight for it. It’s not a perfect society, it’s the best possible one," he asserted, acknowledging both his past limitations and current beliefs.
Through the journey of life, Mujica has consistently celebrated the beauty of existence against a backdrop of societal obsession with wealth. "We are too focused on wealth and not on happiness. We are only concentrating on doing things, and when you want to realize it, life has passed you by uselessly," he remarked, illustrating his philosophy on the essence of life.
In a tender moment, Mujica attributed his strength and resolve to his partner, Lucía Topolansky, saying, "It is thanks to her that I am where I am." While he now desires solitude and to spend his last days in peace, occasionally tending to his newly acquired tractor, Mujica holds a lasting legacy in his unwavering commitment to democracy, solidarity, and the pursuit of happiness over material gain.
As he looks towards the end, Mujica's final wish is to be laid to rest in the company of his beloved dog, Manuela, at his ranch—a testament to a life lived with purpose and passion, and a reminder to cherish the moments that matter most.
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