Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez mulls resignation amid wife's corruption probe
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is contemplating resigning from his position following a corruption investigation involving his wife, Begona Gomez. Sánchez has suspended all public duties for the week to consider his future. Notably, the probe was initiated by Madrid court judge Juan Carlos Peinado after a complaint was filed by the far-right group Manos Limpias (Clean Hands) against Gomez's business dealings.
What are the allegations against Gomez?
Gomez is accused of exploiting her influence to help friends secure public contracts. The allegations suggest she received preferential treatment from executives at Air Europa and its parent company Globalia. This connection is noteworthy due to the $475 million government bailout that the airline received in late 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Neither Gomez nor Globalia have issued any statements on the issue.
PM Sanchez expresses distress over allegations
In a letter shared on social media, Sánchez expressed his distress over the "seriousness of the attacks" he and his wife are facing. "I need to stop and think," he said, emphasizing the severity of this unprecedented situation. He assured that Gomez would "defend her honor" and fully cooperate with the justice system to clear any scandalous rumors. Sánchez's decision to pause public duties underscores his commitment to addressing these allegations head-on.
Sanchez accuses political adversaries of coordinated campaign
Furthermore, Sánchez accused his political rivals, specifically Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the conservative People's Party (PP), and Santiago Abascal, leader of the far-right Vox party, of collaborating with extremist group Manos Limpias. He characterized this as a coordinated campaign aimed at undermining him both politically and personally by targeting his wife.
Colleagues rally in support of embattled PM Sanchez
Several of Sanchez's colleagues have come out in his support. Spain's Environment Minister and deputy Prime Minister Teresa Ribera, expressed strong support for Sánchez and his family during this challenging time. Yolanda Díaz, the labor minister and another deputy prime minister, also pledged her full support on the matter. "This right-wing offensive can't get its way. We need to defend democracy, progressive bloc and legitimacy of a coalition government that's done so much to improve people's lives," she said.
