José Antonio Torres Sáez, mayor of Chercos and Spain’s oldest serving mayor, has died at 100. His three decades in office transformed the village. Authorities and residents mourn his passing.
José Antonio Torres Sáez, the mayor of Chercos (Almería) and Spain’s oldest serving municipal leader, died on Monday at the age of 100. The news was confirmed by the Provincial Council, which highlighted his exceptional dedication to public service. Torres Sáez, born in Chercos on July 23, 1925, was just weeks away from his 101st birthday. The exact cause and time of his death have not been disclosed.
Torres Sáez’s career in public service began long before his time as mayor. He joined the Guardia Civil in 1949, eventually reaching the rank of sub-lieutenant. His assignments took him across Spain, including postings in Lérida, Sevilla, Gerona, Albacete, and Vizcaya. During his years in Amorebieta (Vizcaya), he experienced the most turbulent period of ETA violence and survived a terrorist attack unharmed.
After retiring from the Guardia Civil, Torres Sáez returned to his hometown in 1995. Encouraged by local residents, he ran for mayor and was elected at the age of 70. Over the next 30 years, he became a central figure in Chercos, overseeing significant improvements in local infrastructure and services. His tenure saw the creation of a public library, a scholarship program for children, the construction of a swimming pool, sports facilities, a theater, and a funeral home. He also supported the growth of local businesses and secured the installation of the village’s first ATM.
The president of the Almería Provincial Council, José Antonio García Alcaina, expressed deep sorrow at the loss, describing Torres Sáez as a leader whose energy and commitment left a lasting mark on the community. He referred to him as the “dean of mayors” not only in Almería but across Spain, and emphasized that Chercos benefited from his vision and dedication, resulting in better services and infrastructure for residents.
In September 2025, the Provincial Council honored Torres Sáez with the Gold Shield of the Province, recognizing his lifelong commitment to public service. The ceremony, held at the Chercos Theater, was an emotional moment for the mayor, who thanked the council, his loved ones, and the people of Chercos for their support. He highlighted the importance of investing in culture, education, and sports as drivers of progress for the municipality.
Torres Sáez’s passing comes at a time when the role of local leadership is under scrutiny in Spain, especially as political dynamics shift at the national level. Recent debates, such as those involving the future of the PSOE leadership and the pressures from regional parties, have underscored the importance of strong, community-focused governance. For example, ongoing discussions about national leadership and regional demands were recently explored in an article about calls for Pedro Sánchez to step down to prevent a far-right government, which can be found here.
Spain’s mayors, particularly in rural areas, often serve as the backbone of their communities, managing everything from essential services to cultural initiatives. The longevity and impact of Torres Sáez’s leadership in Chercos reflect a broader trend of local officials playing a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion and driving development in small municipalities. His legacy is likely to be remembered as a model of dedication and resilience in Spanish local politics.
