Uruguay bids farewell to Jose Mujica, its pauper president

[malaise]

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-31679475
<snip>

Whatever your own particular "shade" of politics, it's impossible not to be impressed or beguiled by Jose "Pepe" Mujica.

There are idealistic, hard-working and honest politicians the world over - although cynics might argue they're a small minority - but none of them surely comes anywhere close to the outgoing Uruguayan president when it comes to living by one's principles.

It's not just for show. Mujica's beat-up old VW Beetle is probably one of the most famous cars in the world and his decision to forego the luxury of the Presidential Palace is not unique - his successor, Tabare Vasquez, will also probably elect to live at home.

But when you visit "Pepe" at his tiny, one-storey home on the outskirts of Montevideo you realise that the man is as good as his word.

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Love you "Pepe"

[leveymg]

1. All politicians should be granted a salary & pension, and have to live on it for life. No revolving

doors. If they want to teach or write books after their terms end, they should contribute the proceeds to charity. But, no more $300,000 speakers fees and tens of millions in legalized bribes to their own foundations.

That along with public finance of elections might actually save this damned country, and the world. Throw in an old VW Beetle.

They should call it the Mujica Law. Viva Pepe!

[malaise]

2. He's my idea of an honest leader

Viva Pepe indeed!