A one-time guerrilla fighter turned statesman, Mujica became a symbol of modesty and progressive politics in Latin America, earning the nickname “the world’s humblest president.”
His flag-draped coffin was escorted through the capital on a gun carriage as mourners, some tearful, lined the streets.
“Thanks to all that he did for the poor, the president of the poor,” said one mourner.
The cortege ended at the parliament, where banners, wreaths and portraits of Mujica covered the lawn.
Across the Legislative Palace, in bold letters, read the message: “Farewell, Pepe.”
