Being unfamiliar with Spanish law or politics, is this a case of “We’ve investigated ourselves and found nothing wrong”?
Spain PM Pedro Sánchez and the Ruling PSOE Face Mounting Legal Challenges in 2026
The most significant legal proceedings target [Spanish Prime Minister and leader of the Socialist Party PSOE] Pedro Sánchez’s immediate family and close political allies, marking a critical moment for Spain’s centre-left government. The investigations span a range of alleged misconduct, from potential corruption to influence peddling, and could have far-reaching consequences for the ruling coalition.
One of the most high-profile cases involves José Luis Ábalos, former Transport Minister and key PSOE organiser, who faces potential imprisonment of up to 24 years. Prosecutors allege he engaged in criminal organisation, accepting bribes, misappropriating public funds, and exploiting insider information during the COVID-19 pandemic’s emergency procurement processes.
Particularly sensitive is the investigation into Begoña Gómez, the Prime Minister’s wife, who is being scrutinised for potential professional misconduct related to her business activities. Simultaneously, David Sánchez, the Prime Minister’s brother, will stand trial on May 28th for alleged influence trafficking and improper conduct in the Badajoz Provincial Administration.
The legal challenges represent an unprecedented threat to the PSOE’s political reputation. Unlike previous corruption scandals that primarily implicated lower-level party members, these investigations reach directly into the Prime Minister’s inner circle, potentially undermining public trust in the government …