Tragic Passing of Labor Leader Joel Ayala Almeida

Joel Ayala Almeida, the historic leader of FSTSE, has passed away at the age of 79. A notable figure in Mexican politics and workers' rights, his contributions will be remembered.


Tragic Passing of Labor Leader Joel Ayala Almeida

On Monday, January 27, 2025, Joel Ayala Almeida passed away at the age of 79. He was the president of the National Executive Committee of the Federation of Unions of State Workers (FSTSE). The death of Ayala Almeida, a historic leader of the FSTSE, was confirmed by the Secretary of the Interior, Rosa Icela Rodríguez López, who expressed her condolences through social media.

Ayala Almeida was recognized as a tireless defender of the rights of state workers and a significant figure in Mexican politics. He led the FSTSE from 1998 until his death in 2025, accumulating more than 25 years at the forefront of the union organization. Additionally, he had a notable political career in the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), holding various legislative positions such as Senator and Federal Congressman.

After 40 years of membership in the PRI, Ayala Almeida resigned from the party in 2020, thanking them for the political opportunities received. Various political figures in Mexico mourned his death on social media, highlighting his legacy as a union leader and legislator. Ayala Almeida passed away in a hospital in Mexico City at around 2:30 AM.

Joel Ayala was born on December 20, 1946, in San Luis Río Colorado, Sinaloa, and distinguished himself as an economist, union leader, and politician, being a central figure in the defense of the rights of state workers. In 1995, he assumed the position of General Secretary of the National Union of Workers of the Ministry of Health, a position he held until 1998.