*** Spanish PM’s Wife Charged in Corruption Case Amid Political Pressure | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Spanish PM’s Wife Charged in Corruption Case Amid Political Pressure

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Madrid: Pedro Sanchez’s wife, Begona Gomez, has been formally charged with corruption after a long investigation by a Spanish court.

The case is one of several investigations involving people close to Sanchez, increasing pressure on his government.

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado began the probe in April 2024 to examine whether Gomez used her position as the Prime Minister’s wife for personal benefit — something both she and Sanchez strongly deny.

The investigation focuses on her role in running a programme at Complutense University of Madrid. The judge said there are signs that the programme may have been used for personal gain.

Gomez has been charged with several offences, including embezzlement, influence peddling, corruption, and misuse of funds. A court will now decide whether she will face trial.

Sanchez has dismissed the case as a politically motivated attack by right-wing groups, while opposition parties are demanding his resignation.

The case began after a complaint from an anti-corruption group with far-right links. Meanwhile, Sanchez’s brother, David Sanchez, is also under investigation in a separate case, and former minister Jose Luis Abalos is on trial over alleged corruption.

Gomez, who is currently on an official visit to China with Sanchez, continues to deny any wrongdoing.