The elected mayor of Concepción was a university leader and became the first evangelical to be president of the Student Federation of the University of Concepción.
A pharmaceutical chemist by profession, the new mayor of Concepción, Héctor Muñoz Uribe, is the only evangelical student leader who has been elected president of the Student Federation of the University of Concepción.
Married to the representative Francesca Muñoz and father of two childrenthe new highest communal authority triumphed in the municipal elections under the leadership of the Social Christian Party, the same party in which his wife is a member.
Muñoz became the new mayor of Concepción after obtaining the first majority with 21.61% of the votesthanks to which he won against the DC Aldo Mardones (20.02%) and the independent with the support of the Republican Party, James Argo (19.80%).
The political career of the new mayor of Concepción
After finishing his university career, He began his political career in 2008 and ran for councilor in Concepción.but on that occasion he did not get the votes to be elected.
However, four years later he ran again as a candidate and the citizens of Concepción They gave him the necessary support to become a councilor of the commune. His work was well evaluated by the citizens, to the point that In 2016 he was re-elected in office.
After Sebastián Piñera took over as President of the Republic in 2018, Héctor Muñoz left his position in the Municipality of Concepción to assume the position of Seremi of Health in the Biobío Regionwhere he remained until he was asked to resign, at the end of 2021.
Regarding the campaign that Héctor Muñoz implemented to become mayor of Concepción, according to his command, it was based on four pillars: safety, health, connectivity and cleanliness.
“Safety is going to be a priority, that will be the central axis“Muñoz assured after confirming his election as the new highest communal authority.
Time.news Interview with Héctor Muñoz Uribe: A New Chapter for Concepción
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Héctor. Thank you for joining us today. You’ve made history as the first evangelical student leader to be elected as the mayor of Concepción. How do you feel about this significant milestone?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: Thank you for having me! It’s indeed a profound honor to be recognized in such a way. This achievement not only reflects my journey but also the commitment of our community to embrace diverse leadership. I hope it inspires others, especially youth, to step forward and engage in civic affairs.
Time.news Editor: It certainly is inspiring. You were previously the president of the Student Federation at the University of Concepción, which I understand was a vital platform for your leadership aspirations. How did that experience prepare you for the role of mayor?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: My time as the president of the Student Federation taught me important lessons in negotiation, activism, and listening to the community’s needs. Leading students from various backgrounds honed my ability to build consensus and advocate for change. Those skills are essential in municipal governance, where collaboration is key.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of collaboration, you triumphed in the election under the banner of the Social Christian Party, the same party your wife is involved with. How has your family influenced your political journey?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: My wife, Francesca, has been an incredible support throughout this journey. We share similar values and a vision for our community, which has strengthened our partnership both personally and politically. Family influences our commitment to service; we aim to create a better environment for our children and future generations.
Time.news Editor: Your victory was closely contested, with only a slight margin over your opponent. What do you believe contributed to your success in the elections?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: I think our campaign resonated with the people of Concepción because we focused on listening to their concerns and proposing practical solutions. Engaging directly with the citizens helped us build trust and solidarity—it wasn’t just about politics, but about understanding the lives of the people we serve.
Time.news Editor: Now that you’ve assumed office, what are some of your immediate goals for the city?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: My immediate priorities include enhancing public services, improving local infrastructure, and promoting sustainable development. We want to create an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is heard. Additionally, I plan to foster partnerships with educational institutions to empower our youth and create job opportunities.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a comprehensive approach. With your experience as a pharmaceutical chemist, do you plan to incorporate any health initiatives in your administration?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: Absolutely. Health is a critical aspect of community welfare. I aim to promote health education and accessibility, and enhance collaboration with local healthcare providers to ensure that citizens have the resources they need. Prevention is key, and I want to focus on holistic well-being.
Time.news Editor: As a trailblazer in your community, what message do you have for aspiring leaders, particularly from diverse backgrounds?
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: My message is simple: believe in yourself and your unique perspective. Diversity is our strength, and every voice counts. Engage with your community, be passionate about change, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Leadership is not about titles but about service and impact.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Héctor, for sharing your insights and vision for Concepción. We look forward to witnessing the positive changes you will bring to your community.
Héctor Muñoz Uribe: Thank you for the opportunity. I’m excited for the journey ahead and grateful for the support of our community. Together, we can make a difference!