Begoña Gómez, wife of Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, will face trial on charges related to corruption and influence peddling. A judge made this decision on Saturday, reflecting on ongoing investigations that began in 2024. The accusations surfaced after an anti-graft group alleged that she supported a bid for public contracts linked to companies she has ties with.
Ms. Gómez has denied these allegations, but a judge in Madrid found sufficient evidence for a trial. Among the charges are embezzlement, corruption, misappropriation of funds, and influence peddling. As part of the legal proceedings, she must surrender her passport and report to the court bi-weekly. The court has yet to announce the trial date.
Judge Juan Carlos Peinado commented on the nature of the allegations, likening them to practices seen in authoritarian regimes. The Spanish legal system allows individuals to file complaints directly with the court, where a judge investigates and determines the case’s viability for trial. Far-right groups, like the Vox party, have joined in the complaint against Ms. Gómez.
Prime Minister Sánchez has characterized the accusations against his wife as a political attack. He initially contemplated stepping down when the investigation began but has chosen to remain in his position. Sánchez, known for his popularity among global liberals, is under increasing domestic scrutiny due to corruption allegations. These charges add to the political challenges he faces within Spain.
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