Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has consented to provide written testimony in a preliminary investigation concerning his wife Begona Gomez's business activities, as announced on Wednesday. Gomez is under scrutiny for purported influence peddling and corruption, following a complaint from the anti-graft NGO 'Manos Limpias,' affiliated with the far-right. Sanchez has consistently refuted any misconduct by his wife and characterizes the accusations as a right-wing smear tactic against his leftist administration. However, this case has amplified perceptions of a weak leadership and heightened tensions within Spanish politics.
Sanchez has faced difficulties in advancing legislation since his return to power last year, leading a fragile coalition that depends on various smaller parties for bill approvals. Recently, Spanish lawmakers vetoed the government's fiscal targets, a prerequisite for the government to present a budget. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, leading the investigation, had planned to question Sanchez on July 30 at the prime minister's residence regarding the allegations against Gomez. Yet, in a court submission on Wednesday, Sanchez indicated his intention to 'cooperate' with the investigation but would submit his statement in writing due to his role as prime minister, as permitted by Spanish law.
Judge Peinado contends that Sanchez was summoned as Gomez's husband, not as the prime minister, but this stance was dismissed by Sanchez's associates. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska emphasized that the prime minister's duties are constant. This marks only the second instance of a sitting Spanish prime minister being called to testify in a judicial matter, the first being Mariano Rajoy in 2017 in a corruption case involving his party members.
Gomez, known for her fundraising roles in various foundations and NGOs, is accused of leveraging her husband's position in her professional dealings, particularly with businessman Juan Carlos Barrabes, who sought public funding. Barrabes confirmed meeting Gomez multiple times at the prime minister's residence, with Sanchez present at two of these meetings. He also mentioned that their discussions were limited to innovation topics. Gomez exercised her right to silence during her questioning by a judge last Friday.
Initially, Sanchez considered resigning due to what he described as political harassment by the right when the investigation commenced in April. After a brief period of reflection, he chose to remain in office. PP leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo reiterated his demand for Sanchez's resignation and new elections, stating the current situation is untenable. Spanish prosecutors have advised the judge to abandon the request for Sanchez's testimony, deeming it 'not useful.' Justice Minister Felix Bolanos defended Sanchez, describing the situation as a relentless persecution by the far-right, and expressed confidence in the eventual triumph of justice.
