Juan Mari Aburto, Mayor of Bilbao, has confirmed he will not stand for re-election in the upcoming 2027 municipal elections. The decision, which has been contemplated for months, was announced by the mayor himself before PNV party members, expressing emotion and stating that the time has come to make way for "new faces" to lead the city's future after twelve years in office.

During an event held at Sabin Etxea, the headquarters of the Biscay PNV, Aburto emphasized the need for "new leadership" in the City Council to address Bilbao's future challenges, including issues such as birth rates, population aging, migration, the Basque language, tourism, and mobility.

The mayor expressed his desire to be remembered as "a good person" and thanked the city and its residents for their support. He highlighted that key projects such as Zorrotzaurre and the high-speed rail connection will be initiated during his tenure, and that many of the initiatives launched during his mandate will endure.

Aburto assured that he will continue to work "full steam ahead" until the end of his term, demonstrating his commitment to Bilbao and its neighborhoods. He expressed confidence that the PNV will retain the mayoralty in the next elections, stating that the "makila" (symbol of authority) will remain in "good hands."

Iñigo Ansola, president of the Biscay Buru Batzar (BBB) of the PNV, supported Aburto's decision, describing it as a necessary "change of cycle" to allow new generations to emerge. Ansola praised the mayor's "constant effort" and "innate generosity," highlighting his closeness and commitment to people, values that, according to him, embody the PNV's "spirit."