Spanish PM apologizes after senior official resigns amid corruption probe

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez issued an apology to citizens on Thursday, asserting that he knew "absolutely nothing" about the corruption case that led to the resignation of Santos Cerdán, a senior member of his socialist party (PSOE). Sánchez rejected calls for his own resignation over the incident, which adds to the growing legal and political pressures surrounding his administration.

Cerdán, the party's former secretary for organization and its third-highest official, is under investigation for allegedly facilitating the improper awarding of a public contract during the Covid-19 crisis. He resigned shortly after 4 p.m. on Thursday, maintaining his innocence.

During a news conference, Sánchez expressed his shock upon learning of the allegations through the media earlier that day. "We never should have trusted him," he remarked, stating that he had demanded Cerdán's resignation personally.

"I apologize to all citizens, members, and supporters of the PSOE," Sánchez said. "There is no such thing as zero corruption, but there must be zero tolerance when it occurs. I will continue working for clean politics and democratic regeneration."

Despite speculation about a possible early election, Sánchez affirmed, "There will be no election until 2027." He also announced an external audit of the PSOE's financial accounts and a restructuring of the party's leadership, which will be addressed at the next party congress.

A judge cited a police report revealing consistent evidence that Cerdán collaborated with former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos and his ex-aide Koldo García Izaguirre, allegedly for financial gain. Cerdán has been summoned to appear voluntarily before the Supreme Court on June 25.

"I am absolutely not afraid. I am completely certain that I will not be accused of corruption," Cerdán stated upon arriving at parliament.

The investigation centers on the government's procurement of medical supplies during the early pandemic stages. Ábalos, who served as Transport Minister from 2018 to 2021, is accused of accepting illicit commissions through public contracts. He is under investigation for corruption, influence peddling, and misappropriation of funds.

Ábalos was removed from his cabinet position in 2021 and expelled from the PSOE earlier this year, though he remains a parliamentary independent. His immunity was revoked in January, and he denied any wrongdoing during a court appearance last December.

Additionally, separate corruption inquiries involve Sánchez's wife, Begoña Gómez, and his brother, David Sánchez. The prime minister has dismissed these investigations as politically motivated attempts to undermine his leadership.

Cuca Gamarra, deputy leader of the opposition People’s Party (PP), stated on social media that "Sánchez can no longer hide: he owes the country explanations, resignations, and elections."