On Saturday, June 20th, a court in Spain ordered the Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s wife, Begona Gomez, to stand trial on corruption charges and prohibited her from leaving the country.
Gomez is under investigation for allegedly using her status as the prime minister’s wife to secure job contracts. She has denied any wrongdoing in this case, which was raised by an extreme right-wing group.
Investigating Judge Juan Carlos Peinado ordered Gomez to surrender her passport, imposed a travel ban, and mandated that she report to the court twice a month.
This case is just one of at least five corruption allegations involving close relatives and colleagues of Spain’s leaders. These cases could proceed simultaneously and have gained significant public attention, undoubtedly posing a challenge for Sanchez’s leadership of the Socialist Party.
While Sanchez himself has not been implicated in any case, he stated that these legal proceedings are part of a campaign to overthrow him. The party came to power in 2018 with a pledge to combat government corruption. The party must increase its voter base in the 2027 elections to avoid relying on small party alliances for governance.
The Socialist Party swiftly responded to the judge’s decision, posting on social media: “(Gomez) has been subjected to judicial and political persecution for two years. Today’s development is another step in this process.”
Spanish Minister of Justice Félix Bolaños posted on X, saying, “For everyone who believes in justice, today is a disastrous day. Who will make amends for the losses incurred?”
Several close allies, including a former Minister of Transportation and the third-ranking member of the party, are under investigation for alleged kickbacks in public works, oil and gas contracts, and mask procurement during the pandemic. They have denied any wrongdoing.
The judge’s order indicated signs that Gomez might attempt to flee Spain. If the allegations are proven true, she could face imprisonment. The court order also pointed out that as the prime minister’s wife, her security personnel might “voluntarily or under orders” assist her in escaping.
The police union issued a statement refuting the judge’s implication that members of the Spanish National Police might aid Gomez in escaping, calling it a “barbaric act.”