José Antonio Torres Sáez, mayor of Chercos in Almería and Spain’s longest-serving municipal leader, died on Monday at the age of 100. The Provincial Council confirmed his death and paid tribute to his dedication to public service. Born in Chercos on July 23, 1925, he was weeks away from his 101st birthday. The cause and precise time of his death have not been disclosed.
Torres Sáez’s public-service career began long before he became mayor. He joined the Guardia Civil in 1949 and eventually attained the rank of sub-lieutenant. His postings took him to Lérida, Sevilla, Gerona, Albacete and Vizcaya. While serving in Amorebieta, Vizcaya, he lived through a particularly violent period of ETA activity and survived a terrorist attack unharmed.
After retiring from the Guardia Civil, Torres Sáez returned to his hometown in 1995. Encouraged by residents, he ran for mayor and won election at the age of 70. Over the following three decades, he became a central figure in Chercos, overseeing improvements to local infrastructure and services. Projects during his tenure included a public library, scholarships for children, a swimming pool, sports facilities, a theater and a funeral home. He also supported local businesses and secured the installation of the village’s first ATM.
José Antonio García Alcaina, president of the Almería Provincial Council, expressed sorrow at Torres Sáez’s death and praised the lasting impact of his energy and commitment on the community. He called him the “dean of mayors” in Almería and across Spain, and said Chercos had benefited from his vision through better services and infrastructure.
In September 2025, the Provincial Council honored Torres Sáez with the Gold Shield of the Province for his lifelong public service. The ceremony at the Chercos Theater was an emotional occasion for the mayor. He thanked the council, his loved ones and the people of Chercos for their support, and pointed to investment in culture, education and sport as drivers of municipal progress.
Torres Sáez’s death brings renewed attention to local leadership in Spain amid shifting national political dynamics. Debates over the future of PSOE leadership and pressure from regional parties have highlighted the importance of community-focused governance. An article on calls for Pedro Sánchez to step down to prevent a far-right government explored the ongoing discussions about national leadership and regional demands; it can be found here.
In rural Spain, mayors often oversee impressive services and cultural initiatives. Torres Sáez’s long tenure in Chercos shows the prominent role local officials can play in community life and development. His record in Spanish local politics is one of dedication and ability to recover.
