Prosecutor seeks dismissal of corruption case against Spanish PM’s wife, potential resignation looming

The Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sanchez, is facing a potential resignation following a corruption case against his wife, Begona Gomez. Madrid’s prosecuting authority has requested the dismissal of the case, which was based on allegations of influence peddling and business corruption.

The case was brought forward by the anti-corruption group Manos Limpias, but they have stated that they cannot vouch for the veracity of the media reports that formed the basis of their complaint. Despite this, Sanchez issued a letter denying the allegations against his wife and announced a five-day break from public duties, during which he will decide whether to stay in office or resign.

The political climate in Spain has been described as “toxic” by high-ranking Socialist Party officials, who have closed ranks around Sanchez. Deputy premier Maria Jesus Montero expressed hope that Sanchez would remain in his role, emphasizing the need for his leadership.

The outcome of Sanchez’s decision could range from him staying in office to resigning, which would potentially lead to a new candidate standing for a vote in the lower house or a snap election. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado has opened a preliminary case to investigate the allegations against Gomez, and has called two digital newspaper editors to testify as witnesses.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Gomez will be formally named as a suspect in the ongoing probe. The prosecutor’s appeal against the case will determine the next steps in this high-stakes political drama.