Pedro Sánchez Battles Political Crisis Amid Corruption Scandal in PSOE

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is facing a major political crisis following the resignation of senior Socialist Party (PSOE) leader Santos Cerdán, who is under investigation for alleged corruption. Audio recordings released by investigators appear to show Cerdán discussing commissions paid for public contracts, forcing his resignation from both the party and parliament. Although Sánchez himself is not directly implicated, the scandal has shaken his administration, especially since he had previously defended Cerdán against media allegations.

The investigation also implicates former transport minister José Luis Ábalos and his advisor Koldo García. Meanwhile, Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, is being probed for business irregularities, and his brother faces trial for alleged influence peddling. Sánchez has denounced the investigations as politically motivated attacks from the conservative People’s Party (PP), far-right Vox, and segments of the judiciary. Despite the mounting pressure, he has vowed to complete his term, insisting that the government’s work on healthcare, housing, and climate policy must continue.

Opposition parties have intensified calls for Sánchez’s resignation, accusing him of leading a corrupt administration. The political fallout has left the left-wing electorate demobilized while energizing conservative voters. While Sánchez still holds a fragile majority with the support of nationalist and left-wing allies, further revelations could undermine his position. As he prepares to attend a NATO summit in The Hague, questions about his political survival and Spain’s defense spending commitments loom large.

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