A Spanish anti-corruption group has called for a prison sentence of more than a decade for the wife of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, intensifying political pressure on the Socialist-led government.
The union Manos Limpias has requested a total sentence of 10 years and 3 months in prison for Begoña Gómez, accusing her of continued influence peddling and embezzlement of public funds. In its indictment submitted to a Madrid court, the organisation claims she used her position as the prime minister’s spouse to influence the creation and management of a university chair at the Complutense University of Madrid.
According to the filing, Gómez allegedly benefited financially from the project, including €15,000 in funds, and is also accused of having commercialised software developed within the framework of the initiative through a private company. The union further alleges that a government employee assigned to the Prime Minister’s Office provided assistance in her activities.
Judge Juan Carlos Peinado has formally concluded the investigation this week and is proceeding with charges against Gómez for four offences: influence peddling, embezzlement, corruption in business, and misappropriation. However, he has dropped the charge of professional misconduct, stating there was insufficient evidence to proceed.
Manos Limpias has also requested a separate 2-year and 3-month prison sentence for businessman Juan Carlos Barrabés, accusing him of benefiting from alleged preferential treatment in public contracts through links with Gómez.
