The political landscape of Puente Genil has witnessed a significant moment with the recent appointment of Esteban Morales Sánchez to the Andalusian Parliament. Morales, who served as the socialist mayor of the municipality from 2011 to 2023, thus becomes a prominent local figure in regional politics.
In his new capacity, Morales has emphasized his commitment to defending public services, including Health, Education, Dependency, and Housing, describing them as "the fundamental pillar of our political campaigning in the last elections and a necessity for Andalusia."
One of his most urgent priorities will be advocating for the High Resolution Hospital (CHARE) in Puente Genil, against what he describes as a "progressive dismantling." Morales considers this situation "alarming and intolerable," recalling that the center originated from a "historic and massive collective demand from the entire town."
The decision to assume the responsibility as an Andalusian parliamentarian led Morales to resign his position as a councilor in the Puente Genil City Council in late May, ending a 23-year career in municipal politics. He admits to an "odd feeling" upon leaving the daily local affairs but accepts the change with "absolute normality."
The former mayor confessed that saying goodbye to "proximity politics" and the "one-on-one with the neighbor" has been "difficult." His vocation for service to Puente Genil introduced him to public life at the age of 36, when he joined the PSOE and participated in the municipal candidacy in 2003.
Reflecting on his tenure, Morales highlighted "work and proximity," acknowledging "possible errors" but stating he has "not a single regret" regarding strategic decisions. He pointed to the "very tough economic situation" at the beginning of his term and the "profound sense of institutional abandonment" during the pandemic as challenging periods.
Among his achievements, Morales is particularly proud of the municipality's "cultural flourishing," mentioning the inauguration of the Ricardo Molina hall, the consolidation of the Juan Rejano Poetry Encounter, and the continuation of the Lyric Week. He also promoted Holy Week, recovered heritage buildings, and boosted the Fuente Álamo archaeological site as a major tourist attraction, in addition to transforming the Miragenil neighborhood.
Esteban Morales, a lawyer by profession, also held positions such as President of the Economic and Social Council of Puente Genil (2001-2003), Provincial Delegate for Justice and Public Administration of the Junta de Andalucía in Córdoba (2004-2007), and Provincial Deputy of Córdoba (2007-2011), as well as being Secretary General of the PSOE of Puente Genil (2008-2024).
