A major scandal has erupted in the city of Martos (Jaén province, Andalusia), drawing national attention across Spain. Mayor Emilio Torres has swiftly suspended city council member Manuel Cortés, a representative of the Socialist Party, from office. The decision follows the release online of a video showing Cortés performing songs with openly sexist and derogatory lyrics.
The city authorities responded without delay. The mayor not only stripped Cortés of all powers and revoked his delegated duties, but also formally demanded that he surrender his seat and resign from the municipal council. In a statement released by the administration, it was emphasized that such behavior is entirely at odds with the values of the local government and does not reflect the position of the current team.
Mayor takes firm stand
Emilio Torres strongly condemned his colleague’s actions, calling them completely unacceptable and contrary to the principles upheld by the municipality. According to the mayor, defending dignity and equality is a priority for the city government, and any display of sexism will meet with a firm response.
In his address, Torres emphasized that the city authorities will not tolerate such incidents and expressed his support for feminist ideals and respect for every individual. He urged the residents of Martos not to equate one person’s actions with the position of the entire municipality.
Party Response
Alongside the mayor’s actions, the regional branch of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) in Jaén announced the start of disciplinary proceedings against Manuel Cortés. The party leadership has requested that the central committee temporarily suspend Cortés’s membership until the investigation is complete.
In an official statement, the Socialists stressed that such behavior is incompatible with their principles. The party condemned the actions of its representative and pledged to take all necessary measures to clarify the circumstances and hold those responsible to account.
Public Outcry
The scandal has sparked widespread public reaction not only in Martos but also beyond its borders. The incident is being actively discussed in social media and local media, with many calling for stricter control over the conduct of elected officials. Some city residents have expressed disappointment and are demanding that such cases do not happen again in the future.
At the same time, some residents supported the decisive actions of the mayor and the party, noting that such a response demonstrates zero tolerance for discrimination and sexism at all levels of government. Public demand for transparency and accountability from politicians is growing.
Consequences for Cortés
At this time, Manuel Cortés has been stripped of all his powers and faces possible expulsion from the party. His political future remains uncertain, as both the municipality and the party are demanding he voluntarily relinquish his mandate. Cortés is expected to decide on his future in politics in the coming days.
The scandal in Martos is yet another reminder that Spanish society and its political institutions are becoming increasingly intolerant of sexism and discrimination. Authorities and parties are demonstrating their willingness to take swift and tough action in such cases.
