Spain's PM Sanchez Decides to Stay in Office Amid Corruption Probe Targeting Wife

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has decided to remain in his position after considering resignation amid a corruption probe targeting his wife, Begona Gomez. Sanchez had initially mulled stepping down after a Madrid court opened a preliminary investigation into suspected influence peddling and corruption involving Gomez. However, after numerous supporters gathered in Madrid chanting for him to stay, Sanchez announced he would remain as prime minister.

The allegations against Gomez were brought forward in a complaint by an anti-graft group called "Clean Hands." Sanchez has denied the claims, calling them part of a "sustained campaign of mud-slinging" and "harassment" against him and his family by right-wing media and opposition parties. "The allegations against my wife are alleged and spurious information," Sanchez said.

The public prosecutor's office has requested the dismissal of the investigation into Gomez, citing a lack of evidence. Sanchez had suspended his public duties for a few days while contemplating his decision, but key members of his Socialist government arrived at the Moncloa palace in Madrid ahead of his announcement to stay in office.

Why this matters: The corruption probe and Sanchez's response have significant implications for Spain's political landscape. If Sanchez had resigned, it could have triggered early elections and jeopardized the passage of key legislation, such as a bill granting amnesty to Catalan separatist politicians. His decision to stay demonstrates his determination to continue his agenda despite the allegations against his wife.

Opposition parties have criticized Sanchez's handling of the situation, with the leader of the conservative People's Party saying "Spain does not have a problem, the one who has a judicial problem is Sanchez, his government, his party and his circle." However, Sanchez's supporters view the corruption probe as a politically driven attack and have rallied behind him. The Spanish press expects Sanchez to seek another vote of confidence from parliament to show he still has support to govern.

Key Takeaways

• Spanish PM Sanchez to remain in office despite corruption probe against his wife
• Allegations against Sanchez's wife Gomez dismissed by public prosecutor due to lack of evidence
• Sanchez's decision to stay avoids early elections, preserves his legislative agenda
• Opposition criticizes Sanchez's handling, but his supporters view probe as politically motivated
• Sanchez expected to seek vote of confidence from parliament to demonstrate continued support