Juan Mari Aburto, the Mayor of Bilbao, has announced he will not seek re-election in 2027. While not the official end of his term, his words and the ovations received suggested a farewell. Aburto stated he has given his all for Bilbao, even sacrificing part of his health, referring to his hip surgeries which he sometimes had to postpone to avoid leaving his responsibilities during critical times like the covid pandemic.
The mayor emphasized that he has dedicated his effort and work to improving the quality of life for the city, its people, and its neighborhoods. Reflecting on how Bilbao has changed during his tenure, he indicated there will be "time to talk about legacies." He added: "Sometimes people ask me how I want to be remembered, and the answer is easy and simple: as a good person."
“"A veces me preguntan cómo quiero ser recordado y la respuesta es fácil y sencilla: como una buena persona"
Aburto expressed his gratitude to his team, family, and friends. He also acknowledged three key figures of reference: Juan Mari Atutxa, who taught him the importance of being willing to give everything; José Luis Bilbao, who showed him that governing means facing problems and making decisions; and Iñigo Urkullu, from whom he learned that leadership is important and should be shared.
Concluding his speech, the mayor assured: "I will continue to give my best so that Bilbao remains the best city in the World, word of the Mayor of Bilbao."
