Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated on Wednesday that he is considering resigning following a court investigation into his wife Begona Gomez for suspected corruption.
“I need time to reflect on whether I should continue leading the government or relinquish this responsibility,” he expressed in a letter shared on social media.
Sanchez plans to announce his decision on Monday and will suspend his activities until then.
Earlier, a Madrid court announced an inquiry into Gomez for alleged influence peddling and corruption, prompted by a complaint from the anti-corruption group Manos Limpias.
The investigation follows reports linking Gomez to private companies receiving government funds or contracts, notably Spanish tourism group Globalia, which owns Air Europa.
Gomez, who previously led IE Africa Center, associated with Madrid’s Instituto de Empresa (IE) business school, met with Globalia’s CEO during bailout negotiations amidst the Covid-19 crisis.
Sanchez condemned the accusations as unfounded, attributing them to a smear campaign orchestrated by ultraconservative media and supported by right-wing opposition parties. He emphasized that the allegations against his wife were politically motivated.
Scandal Unfolds: Allegations Against Spain’s Prime Minister’s Wife
El Confidencial reported that IE Africa Center signed a sponsorship deal with Globalia in 2020, while Gomez had a private meeting with Hidalgo at the company’s headquarters.
This occurred during Globalia’s negotiations for a significant government bailout amid the Covid-19 crisis. Last month, Globalia confirmed to El Confidencial that Hidalgo and Gomez met at its Madrid offices on June 24 and July 16.
Between these dates, Sanchez’s administration announced a 10-billion-euro fund to aid severely affected firms. Four months later, they approved a 475-million-euro lifeline for Air Europa, the initial beneficiary of the funds.
Investigators are examining two support letters purportedly provided by Gomez for a joint venture vying for a public contract.
The venture, led by consultant Carlos Barrabes, allegedly secured the contract, surpassing 20 competitors, and received a 10.2-million-euro award.
Political Turmoil Amidst Corruption Allegations
Manos Limpias, led by lawyer Miguel Bernad, lodged the complaint against the Prime Minister’s wife. Despite Bernad’s previous acquittal on extortion charges, the investigation into Sanchez’s family remains contentious.
In parliament, Sanchez maintained confidence in the justice system but faced demands for clarity from the opposition. They warned of potential investigations into matters close to him.
In response, Sanchez’s deputy accused them of defamation, defending Spain’s democracy against what she deemed “Trumpesque practices.”
The situation reflects a political standoff, with the opposition pushing for accountability while the government defends against perceived attacks.
Amidst the allegations and counter-accusations, the integrity of Spain’s judicial and political systems comes under scrutiny, with implications for public trust and the country’s democratic principles.
