Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is facing renewed political pressure after a court ordered his wife, Begoña Gómez, to stand trial over corruption-related allegations.
Judge Juan Carlos Peinado ruled that Gómez must surrender her passport, report to court twice each month, and remain in Spain while legal proceedings continue. The case adds to a series of challenges confronting Sánchez’s government as investigations involving individuals close to his administration continue to attract public attention.
Gómez has been accused of offences including influence peddling, embezzlement, corruption in business dealings, and misappropriation of funds.
Prosecutors allege that she used her position as the wife of the prime minister to advance professional opportunities linked to her work at a Madrid university. Both Gómez and Sánchez have strongly denied the allegations. The prime minister has repeatedly described the investigation as politically motivated and has dismissed the accusations as an attempt to damage his government.
The developments come despite a period in which Spain has recorded strong economic performance under Sánchez’s leadership. Since taking office in 2018, Sánchez and his Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) have overseen one of Europe’s fastest-growing major economies while governing through a coalition that relies on support from regional parties.
Ironically, Sánchez first came to power after a major corruption scandal brought down the previous centre-right government. Now, similar allegations surrounding figures close to him have intensified scrutiny of his administration.
The court’s decision marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings and could increase political pressure on Sánchez as he seeks to maintain stability within his government.
While the trial will determine whether the accusations have merit, the case is already shaping up to be one of the most sensitive political controversies of his premiership.
