Spain’s Socialist-led government is facing mounting pressure after a series of high-profile corruption cases involving figures close to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
A Spanish judge has charged Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, with influence peddling and bribery following a lengthy investigation. She is now expected to stand trial. The government has firmly denied any wrongdoing, describing the case as politically motivated.
The timing of the charges has also raised tensions within the government itself, as the decision was announced during Sánchez’s official visit to China. Justice Minister Félix Bolaños said the investigation has “embarrassed many citizens and judges” in Spain following the ruling.
At the same time, a separate case is unfolding. Former transport minister José Luis Ábalos, once one of Sánchez’s closest allies, has appeared before Spain’s Supreme Court facing multiple charges, including bribery, embezzlement, and belonging to a criminal organisation. Prosecutors are seeking a 24-year prison sentence.
Ábalos and his former aide are accused of receiving kickbacks linked to public contracts awarded during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for masks and medical supplies.
The case carries significant political weight, as Ábalos played a central role in Sánchez’s rise to power and was instrumental in building the alliances that brought his government into office in 2018.
