By Online Team

8^th Oct 2012:

While the title President is often synonymous with plush living and hefty pay cheques, Uruguay’s head of state is contrasting the norm.  José Mujica who is commonly referred to as

Jose Mujica - a friend of the poor?

“The World’s Poorest President” donates 90 per cent of his salary, often remaining with no more than $1,250 of the $12,350 he should have taken home.

Speaking to a Spanish newspaper last week, the 77-year-old head of state explained that the amount he takes home is sufficient.  “…I do fine with that amount – I have to do fine because there are many Uruguayans who live with much less,” he told the paper.

Mujica also refused to live in the official Presidential Palace, opting for a small farmhouse owned by his wife. Like her husband, Mrs. Mujica also donates a large sum of her senatorial salary.

An ex-guerrilla fighter, Mujica is widely believed to have no personal bank account.  In fact, when he was declaring his wealth, Mujica stated in no uncertain terms that his most valuable possession is his pensionable Volkswagen Beetle.

Mujica is also a man who is known for his dislike of formalities and high-end living, something that has endeared him to many as a generous leader – a “true man of the people”.

Although José Mujica is not the first president to donate his salary, his move is a sharp contrast to that of many African leaders, including President Museveni who has countless state lodges, and travels in a convoy of over 45 gas guzzling vehicles.

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