Crisis in the PSOE of Alcalá: Resignation of Javier Rodríguez Palacios and controversy over photos of the Secretary of Organisation

An unexpected turn in local politics

Politics in Alcalá de Henares has taken a surprising turn following the resignation of Javier Rodríguez Palacios, who until now held the position of general secretary of the PSOE in this Madrid locality. The decision, which has left many surprised, comes amid a controversy involving the Secretary of Organisation, Enrique Nogués, and compromising images that have resurfaced from the past.

Rodríguez Palacios, also a member of Congress and former mayor for eight years, has made public a letter addressed to the Secretary of Organisation of PSOE-M where he expresses his discontent with the current situation of the party. In it, he openly criticises Nogués for his refusal to resign despite having a disciplinary file open due to controversial photographs taken in 2014. These images show the secretary interacting inappropriately with an erotic dancer during a social event.

The former socialist leader emphasises that Nogués' behaviour contravenes the PSOE Code of Ethics and Conduct, recently amended to establish stricter rules regarding the personal and professional conduct of its members. According to this code, any sexual act in exchange for remuneration is considered incompatible with party membership and can lead to severe sanctions, including expulsion.

Apart from the scandal over the photos, Rodríguez Palacios also denounces what he considers an irregular process in party memberships under Nogués' leadership. He claims that more than 200 new registrations have been recorded in just 15 days, which he describes as an exceptional and unusual fact. This situation has raised concerns among party members about possible internal manipulations.

The reaction within the Municipal Executive Committee (CEM) has been swift. Following the announcement of the opening of the file against Nogués, several members expressed their concern about how these situations could affect the public image of the PSOE just before the municipal elections scheduled for 2027. The controversial image had already wreaked havoc during the previous elections when it was used by political opponents to discredit the party.

With Rodríguez Palacios' resignation, a new chapter opens for the PSOE in Alcalá. The imminent creation of a management committee could be key to restoring internal order and regaining trust among members and voters. The former general secretary has made clear his commitment to the political future of the municipality: “In 2023, we obtained over 37% of the votes; our goal is to regain that support.”