Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has opted to temporarily suspend his public duties to deliberate on whether to continue in his role, following a court’s initiation of a preliminary inquiry into his wife.
In a statement, Sánchez expressed the urgency of determining whether he should persist as the head of government or relinquish his position.
The court’s action stemmed from corruption allegations against Begoña Gómez, Sánchez’s wife, which he emphasized would be vigorously defended against, with her full cooperation with the judiciary to dispel any unfounded claims.
The complaint against Gómez was lodged by the anti-corruption group Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), led by Miguel Bernad, associated with the far-right. Notably, Bernad acknowledged the potential falsehood of their allegations, which relied on online reports.
Sánchez condemned what he described as a sustained campaign aimed at undermining him politically and personally targeting his spouse.
Although the court did not elaborate on the accusations against Gómez, reports have surfaced linking her to private companies receiving government funds or contracts, notably concerning a sponsorship agreement involving Globalia and a foundation she chaired.
The decision to step back from public duties arrives amid heightened political tension for Sánchez’s Socialist party, with impending European Parliament elections and Catalonia regional elections. His coalition government, reliant on support from Catalan separatist parties, faces scrutiny over controversial amnesty measures, complicating an already delicate political landscape.
Sánchez’s allies have voiced support amidst the turmoil, but the suspension of his duties underscores the challenges facing his administration amidst ongoing political and legal scrutiny.