After learning the medical report of former president José Mujica, who faces metastasis of his esophageal cancer to the liver as reported by his personal doctor, Dr. Raquel Pannone, Cecilia Cairo highlighted the importance of respecting the process that Mujica is going through.
“We were not talking to him because we are letting him enjoy his farm, his sector, what he plants, what he takes out. I need to communicate it and I understand it, I ask everyone to respect this,” said the future Minister of Housing at a press conference.
The leader of the Popular Participation Movement (MPP) stressed that, despite her current state of health, Mujica continues to be a key figure for the Frente Amplio. “Pepe is always thinking about the future, and we have to think about the future. He is doing his process, and we deeply respect him,” said Cairo, visibly affected but firm in her political commitment.
Recognition of Mujica and Topolansky
In his statements, Cairo highlighted Mujica’s fundamental role in building the recent achievements of the Frente Amplio. “Pepe worked on this victory, no matter how much he said no, and Lucía, and each of his teammates. One of the things that mattered to us was that Pepe saw this victory of the Frente Amplio, and I think we achieved that,” he stated.
In relation to Lucía Topolansky, Mujica’s wife and also a representative of the MPP, Cairo highlighted her active presence in the tasks of the Executive and her importance in what is to come for the Frente Amplio. “Lucía comes to the Executive meetings and is always there. There are a lot of tasks that she has participated in, and we need her. There are many people who adore her, just as they adore Pepe, and she is also key to what is to come,” he added.
Commitment to the collective legacy
Cairo reiterated that the Frente Amplio will continue working to respond to the needs of the Uruguayan people, honoring the legacy of Mujica and other colleagues who faced great difficulties. “This is not just about winning; This is contributing to improving the situation of Uruguayans, and we are committed to that. What we built during all these years and that Pepe built with so many difficulties, we have to continue and respond to that demand,” he expressed.
Despite his obvious emotion, Cairo made his determination clear. “I am saddened, but I have all the strength to change people’s reality. As Pepe says, the important thing is collective projects, and that’s what we’re working on,” he concluded.
