Begoña Gómez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has been embroiled in a growing controversy for some time. This situation has led to legal and political complications that have gripped the entire country. On Friday, July 5, she was called to testify in a case of commercial corruption and influence peddling, opened by Judge Juan Carlos Peinado following a complaint from the far-right Manos Limpios Union, based on newspaper clippings.
Update: Begoña Gomez was in the courtroom for only 30 minutes on Friday, where she was asked why she had to appear as a witness and what the specific charge was, something the judge never answered in writing, even though this is required by law. The judge then decided to postpone the questioning until July 19. Outside, about 20 people demonstrated in the street against the wife of the Spanish prime minister.
Judge Peñado summoned Begoña Gomez on June 4, 2024, five days before the European elections. This happened while the testimony of ten witnesses was still pending and there was a Civil Guard report concluding that there was no evidence of a crime. The judge has The case was opened. Based on a complaint filed by Manos Limpius based on newspaper clippings and even fake news. Pedro Sanchez’s wife was summoned in the last week of the election campaign.
Spanish Media He reported that the judge had questions about the appointment of Begoña Gómez as director of the Chair of Competitive Social Transformation at the Complutense University of Madrid. This promotes research and education in the field of social innovation and sustainable development.
the conditions The creation and appointment of Gomes has been controversial, as the chair was created shortly after Pedro Sánchez was appointed Prime Minister. Doubts have been raised about Gomes’ qualifications for the position, with critics suggesting that the appointment was politically motivated rather than academic.
One of the most controversial aspects of Gomez’s position is her relationship with businessman Juan Carlos Barrabes. This connection has led to accusations of conflict of interest and possible abuse of power.
The case surrounding the Air Europe bailout is another important aspect of the Begoña Gómez controversy. It is at the heart of allegations of conflicts of interest and possible abuse of influence at the highest levels of the Spanish government.
Air Europa, a major Spanish airline (like KLM), faced serious financial problems during the pandemic. The Spanish government’s decision to rescue the airline with a €475 million bailout has sparked political debate.
The judge is also investigating the links between Begoña Gómez, Globalia (the parent company of Air Europe) and the startup Wakalua. The key point in this case is the agreement between the IE Africa Centre, led by Gómez, and Wakalua. However, due to the pandemic, the annual contribution of 40,000 euros was never paid and no events were organised.
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