MADRID: A Madrid court on Tuesday issued a summons for Begona Gomez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, to appear on July 5 as part of a preliminary corruption probe into her business connections, AFP reported.
This development comes after prosecutors’ failed attempt to close the probe, signaling that there is substantial evidence warranting further investigation into Gomez’s business connections.
The court’s decision to proceed with the investigation is viewed as a setback for Prime Minister Sanchez but a victory for his right-wing adversaries, who have long accused his left-wing government of corruption. Court documents revealed that there is enough evidence to suggest the commission of alleged criminal offenses, contradicting an earlier report by the Guardia Civil police, which found no such evidence.
Gomez is being investigated for suspected influence peddling and corruption, following a complaint filed by the anti-graft NGO Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), affiliated with the far right. The complaint, based on media reports, centers on public contracts awarded to a businessman with whom Gomez had professional ties.
Sanchez swiftly denounced the investigation as a political maneuver aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He attributed it to a concerted effort by media influenced by the right and far-right, with backing from the opposition. Despite considering resignation when the probe was confirmed in April, Sanchez ultimately decided to remain in office.
The opposition, particularly the conservative Popular Party (PP), has seized upon the controversy to call for Sanchez’s resignation. PP leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo asserted that Sanchez should step down given the questions surrounding his wife’s business dealings, saying that Sanchez was aware of her activities all along.
Reacting to the court’s decision, PP secretary-general Cuca Gamarra condemned Sanchez, asserting that the summons was not an attempt to sling mud but rather a reflection of corruption within the government. Gamarra emphasized the need for a worthy leader, insinuating that Sanchez falls short of this standard.
