Global Leaders and Election Updates

José Mujica, Uruguay's former president known as the "world's poorest president" due to his modest lifestyle, has died at the age of 89. Mujica governed Uruguay from 2010 to 2015 and was known for his simple living, rejection of consumerism, and social reforms, including the legalization of marijuana. He had been suffering from oesophageal cancer. As a former guerrilla, Mujica spent 14 years in prison, where he was tortured and isolated, before being freed in 1985. He later became a lawmaker and minister before being elected president. During his presidency, Uruguay's economy grew, poverty was reduced, and unemployment remained low. Mujica remained popular in Uruguay and was seen as a significant figure in Latin American politics, despite some controversy surrounding his legacy.

José Mujica, Uruguay's former president known for his humble lifestyle and progressive policies, has died at 89. Mujica, who served as president from 2010-2015, was a former Marxist guerrilla and flower farmer who charmed the world with his simple ways and plain-spoken philosophy. During his presidency, he oversaw the legalization of marijuana and same-sex marriage, enacted abortion rights, and established Uruguay as a leader in alternative energy. Mujica had been battling esophageal cancer since 2024 and had decided not to pursue further treatment, saying "a warrior has the right to rest" in his final interview.

The Philippines is awaiting official results from its midterm elections, in which former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained at The Hague awaiting trial for alleged crimes against humanity, is leading in the mayoral race for his hometown of Davao. Under Philippine law, candidates facing criminal charges can still run for office unless convicted and having exhausted all appeals. The elections, which saw over 68 million Filipinos voting for various national and local seats, will determine the political future of Duterte's family, including his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, who faces an impeachment trial in July. Sara Duterte's Senate race is being closely watched, as a conviction could end her vice presidency and bar her from future public office, potentially impacting her 2028 presidential ambitions. Other Duterte family members, including sons Paolo and Sebastian, are also running in the elections. The voting process was marred by violence, with several people killed and injured in various incidents across the country.

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained by the International Criminal Court, has been elected as mayor of his home city, Davao, by a landslide, according to preliminary results. At least five candidates backed by his family are also leading in the Senate elections, a stronger-than-expected showing. Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is facing an impeachment trial in July and needs at least nine of 24 senators to vote in her favor to be acquitted. The Duterte family's continued influence is evident as several family members, including sons and grandsons, are leading in various local races.