MONTEVIDEO -- Former Uruguayan president Jose "Pepe" Mujica died Tuesday at the age of 89 in Montevideo, President Yamandu Orsi confirmed.

Mujica announced in January that his esophageal cancer, first diagnosed in April 2024, had spread to his liver. He said he would not pursue further treatment.

"With deep sorrow we announce the passing of our comrade Pepe Mujica - president, activist, leader, and guide. We'll miss you dearly, old friend. Thank you for everything you gave us and for your deep love for your people," Orsi wrote on social media.

In an interview with local weekly Busqueda, Mujica had said, "This is the end of the road for me," adding, "my cycle is over." He asked to be left in peace and expressed his wish to be buried at his farm on the outskirts of Montevideo.