Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been summoned to testify as a witness in a corruption investigation involving his wife, Begoña Gómez. The inquiry, led by Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, is set to take place at Sánchez’s official residence on July 30 at 11:00 am. The court aims to question the Prime Minister regarding suspected influence peddling by his wife.
The preliminary investigation, which began in April, seeks to determine whether Gómez used her government connections to benefit her private business interests. The investigation was prompted by a complaint from Manos Limpias (“Clean Hands”), an anti-graft NGO with ties to ultranationalist groups and the far-right Vox party. A second complaint was filed by Hazte Oir (“Make Yourself Heard”), an ultra-Catholic pressure group also linked to the far-right.
Gómez invoked her right to remain silent during a recent questioning session by a judge. On July 5, she appeared before the same judge, but the hearing was suspended because her lawyer had not been fully informed about all the complaints against her and requested additional time to review them.
Prime Minister Sánchez has consistently defended his wife, asserting her innocence. Justice Minister Félix Bolanos also spoke out in Gómez’s defense, reinforcing the government’s stance that she has not engaged in any wrongdoing.
The corruption probe poses a significant challenge for Sánchez’s administration, as it grapples with accusations that could undermine public trust. The involvement of far-right groups in filing the complaints adds a complex political dimension to the case, reflecting the polarized nature of Spanish politics.
As the investigation unfolds, the testimony of Prime Minister Sánchez will be closely watched, potentially impacting his political standing and the broader perception of his administration’s integrity. The outcome of this probe could have far-reaching implications for both Sánchez and his wife, as well as for the political landscape in Spain.