Government vows to pursue leaks surrounding Sánchez and Ábalos conversations

The Spanish government has taken a firm stance regarding the recent leaks of private conversations between Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and former Minister José Luis Ábalos. In a press briefing following the Council of Ministers meeting, Félix Bolaños, Minister of the Presidency, Justice, and Relations with the Cortes, emphasized the government's commitment to uncovering the source of these leaks, which he described as a matter of "maximum gravity."

Despite efforts from Moncloa to downplay the controversy, dismissing the content of the leaked conversations as "inconsequential," officials acknowledge that the leak itself could constitute a criminal offense. Bolaños confirmed that the government is reserving legal actions should a judicial investigation not be initiated promptly. This marks a notable shift from previous statements by the PSOE, which had suggested a more passive approach to the situation.

Bolaños urged the Supreme Court to open a "separate case" regarding the leaks, stressing the necessity of understanding their origin, particularly since the messages in question are under judicial protection. He stated, "We will wait for this judicial investigation, which we consider inevitable," and added that if no investigation is launched within a reasonable timeframe, the government would pursue specific actions.

Sources within the government remain cautious, refraining from attributing the leaks directly to Ábalos. They expressed uncertainty about the identity of the leaker, stating, "We do not know who it was. We have no evidence that it was Ábalos." This uncertainty has permeated the ranks of the Socialist Party, leaving many within Moncloa and the party itself in a state of confusion regarding the motivations behind these leaks.

In addressing the implications of the leaked messages, government officials asserted that the communication between Sánchez and Ábalos ceased once corruption allegations surfaced in February of the previous year. They maintain that prior exchanges do not implicate Sánchez in any wrongdoing. "We are concerned, but we remain calm because he has done nothing wrong," a government source affirmed, underscoring the belief that the content of the leaked messages does not present a significant threat to the Prime Minister.

As the situation evolves, the government remains vigilant, committed to pursuing justice while navigating the complexities of the political landscape in Spain.