Video | Uruguay’s Mujica: the world’s ‘poorest president’
A former florist, guerrilla and prisoner now known as the world’s poorest president, Uruguayan leader Jose Mujica says he has had “an extraordinary life.”
A former florist, guerrilla and prisoner now known as the world’s poorest president, Uruguayan leader Jose Mujica says he has had “an extraordinary life.”
As he approaches his 80th birthday and retirement, the veteran leftist -- who has drawn worldwide attention for legalizing marijuana sales, slamming capitalism and opting to stay in his tiny run-down house instead of the presidential mansion -- told AFP he is still looking to the future.
“I believe we were always sensitive to a youthful, new-world way of thinking,” he said in an interview at his house on the outskirts of the capital Montevideo, which has about 45 square metres (480 square feet) of floor space and moisture stains on the walls.
“My generation, when we went to a dance, we went in a blue or black suit, patent-leather dress shoes and tie. Otherwise they didn’t let you in. The new generation wouldn’t even dream of that. Politicians have a hard time registering those tacit changes that happen without anyone proposing them.”
Sporting a grey mustache and beige cardigan, Mujica welcomes visitors without fuss and chats away on topics ranging from politics to love to religion.