Key Takeaways:
– Begona Gomez, wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, appeared in court in connection with a case alleging misappropriation of funds.
– Madrid’s Complutense University’s software is at the heart of the allegations.
– The case has implications for Sanchez’s government, already under pressure by several sensitive legal cases.
– The allegations, brought forward by right-wing groups, suggest the involvement of other high-profile figures.
Court Appearance Amid Brewing Affairs
Spain’s political environment is currently in the limelight as several legal cases have gripped the minority left-wing government. The high point this heated week was when Begona Gomez, the wife of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, had her day in court over allegations of misappropriation.
Gomez Testifies Over Controversial Software
Gomez agreed to respond only to queries from her attorney at the inquest, focusing on accusations that she misused software. This software, initially intended for use at Madrid’s Complutense University and financed by private firms, became the focal point of the allegations during her tenure at the institution.
The Green Light from Judge Peinado
Judge Juan Carlos Peinado allowed this probe to be launched after accepting complaints from the far-right group, Hazte Oir or Make Your Voice Heard. In April, Peinado initiated an inquiry against Gomez based on charges of corruption and influence peddling.
An Underground Arrival and Departure
Gomez chose a discreet entrance and exit for her court day, choosing to arrive and depart via an underground garage. Her aim apparently was to avoid awaiting media personnel.
Claims of Political Motivation
Gomez has previously declined to comment on the corruption and influence peddling case, invoking her right to silence back in July. During an earlier interaction with the conservative-controlled Madrid regional parliament in November, she termed the accusations as politically motivated.
Corruption and Covid-19 Masks
This busy week also saw another hearing connected to the Spanish government’s alleged fraudulent procurement of masks during the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. A businessman suspected of involvement in this case pointed fingers at Sanchez’s trusted ally and ex-Transport Minister, Jose Luis Abalos.
Sanchez’s Defence
Despite these allegations, Sanchez, one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders, has firmly defended the innocence of his wife and his government. According to him, these charges form part of a smear campaign spearheaded by conservative and far-right opposition groups.
Sanchez Plays the Victim
During a parliamentary debate coinciding with Gomez’s hearing, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, leader of the conservative Popular Party (PP), criticised Sanchez for playing the victim before judges.
A Separate Case for David Sanchez
Sanchez’s younger brother is also due for a hearing in January in a separate case. Manos Limpias or Clean Hands, another far-right group, has accused him of embezzlement, influence peddling, and tax fraud.
Preserving Judiciary Independence
Sanchez has earlier expressed his views on the potential collusion of judges with the PP in these emerging cases. However, the Supreme Court president defended the judiciary’s independence, dismissing these allegations.
As the legal environment heats up, Spain awaits the outcome of these high profile cases, determining the future trajectory of its political landscape.