Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez Faces Resignation Decision Amid Wife's Corruption Investigation (image-X/Argenpoirot)
Spain”s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is contemplating resignation following a judicial investigation into allegations of corruption involving his wife, Begona Gomez. The accusations, brought forward by a right-wing legal platform, Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), suggest that Gomez used her position to influence business deals.
Sanchez vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that they are false. However, he acknowledged the gravity of the situation in a letter posted on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account, stating, “I need to stop and reflect.” He announced the suspension of his public agenda until Monday, when he will reveal his decision regarding whether to continue leading the government or step down.
Carta a la ciudadanía. pic.twitter.com/c2nFxTXQTK
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) April 24, 2024
The Madrid court”s decision to open an investigation came after Limpias lodged a complaint against Gomez, citing suspicions of influence peddling and corruption. This move has intensified the scrutiny on Sanchez”s administration.
The allegations center around Gomez”s purported ties to private companies that received government funding or secured public contracts. Of particular focus is her connection to Spanish tourism group Globalia, which owns Air Europa. Reports indicate that Gomez, in her previous role at IE Africa Center, had interactions with Globalia”s CEO, Javier Hidalgo, during discussions about a substantial bailout for the airline amid pandemic-induced financial strains.
The investigation also looks into letters of support allegedly provided by Gomez for a joint venture competing for a public contract, sparking outrage from the opposition, notably the Popular Party (PP). The PP has accused Sanchez of harboring conflicts of interest and facing potential ethical lapses.
The 52-year-old Sanchez, a prominent figure in European politics and one of the longest-serving Socialist leaders, maintained his innocence and condemned what he perceived as a smear campaign against his wife orchestrated by political adversaries and “ultraconservative” media.
“I am not naive. I am aware that they are bringing charges against Begona, not because she”s done anything illegal, because they know full well that”s not true, but because she”s my wife,” he said.
