Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been facing corruption allegations against his wife, Begoña Gómez, accusing her of using her position to influence business deals. Sánchez denied the allegations but stated that he will consider resigning in light of a judicial investigation into the matter. The allegations were made by a right-wing legal platform called Manos Limpias, known for pursuing lawsuits mainly for right-wing causes. Sánchez announced that he will cancel his public agenda until Monday when he will decide whether to continue or step down from his position as prime minister.
The Spanish judge agreed to probe the corruption allegations and launch an investigation to determine the validity of the claims made against Gómez. Manos Limpias accused her of using her influence in business deals, prompting the court to look into the matter. Justice Minister Félix Bolaños defended Gómez, stating that the allegations were false. Sánchez is receiving support from members of his government, including Second Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz. However, the opposition parties, including the Popular Party and Vox, have criticized Sánchez for not holding himself accountable in the face of these allegations.
Sánchez has been in office since 2018 and was able to form a new left-wing coalition government in November for another four-year term. He is one of Europe’s longest-serving Socialist leaders and has faced challenges from right-wing groups during his tenure. The possibility of a governmental crisis comes at a crucial time, just weeks before important regional elections in Catalonia and European elections in June. Sánchez accused online news sites aligned with the Popular Party and Vox party of spreading false allegations that led to the judicial probe involving his wife.
Manos Limpias, the group behind the corruption allegations, describes itself as a union but is mainly focused on pursuing legal cases related to right-wing causes. The court will now consider the allegations against Gómez and determine whether there is evidence to support the claims made by the group. Sánchez expressed his love for his wife and stated that the attack on her is unprecedented and has led him to reflect on his future in politics. The prime minister emphasized that the allegations are an attempt to harass him and force him out of politics through a personal attack on his wife.
Sánchez’s decision to consider resigning in the face of corruption allegations against his wife has raised concerns about the stability of the Spanish government. The judicial investigation will shed light on the allegations and determine the next steps in the case. The prime minister’s announcement to reflect on his future in politics shows the personal toll that such accusations can have on public officials and their families. The political landscape in Spain is tense, with opposition parties seizing the opportunity to criticize Sánchez’s handling of the situation. The outcome of the investigation will impact the future of Sánchez’s government and his leadership in Spain.
