Judge Peinado summons Spanish PM Sánchez as witness in Begoña Gómez case

Pedro Sánchez to testify on July 30 in Begoña Gómez investigation

What does the Spanish Prime Minister know about his vvife’s business dealings? Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, investigating Begoña Gómez for alleged influence peddling and corporate corruption, has summoned Pedro Sánchez as a witness for July 30. The decision stems from a complaint by the union Manos Limpias, whose secretary general, Miguel Bernard, argues that Sánchez was an "aware and necessary collaborator" in his spouse's activities, particularly regarding the chair she led at Complutense University and related business contracts.

A summons that unsettles Moncloa

The government's reaction was immediate. From the outset, the PSOE and the Executive have attacked Judge Peinado, accusing him of perversion of justice and "twisting the law," according to Interior Minister Marlaska. The Professional Association of Magistrates (APM), the majority judicial group, warned the EU about "attacks" from Moncloa against the magistrate. Justice Minister Bolaños described the investigation as a "cruel and inhumane persecution." Among the most notable maneuvers, Sánchez attempted to have the judge sign a document shielding his testimony under "state secret," which Peinado rejected.

Tracing the businesses: from Barrabés to Aldama

As the investigation pogre, the net tightens. Businessman Carlos Barrabés, a partner in Begoña’s chair, confirmed before the judge that he met with Sánchez at Moncloa, though without the First Lady present. Later, broker Víctor Aldama testified that Sánchez personally thanked him for his efforts and met with Begoña Gómez at least seven times, acting three times as Sánchez’s messenger. These testimonies led Judge Peinado to issue a new ruling labeling Sánchez as an "accomplice" in his vvife's actions, and to request their marriage certificate to determine if they share community property assets.

A case that keeps expanding

The probe extends beyond the university chair. The UCO (Guardia Civil police unit) discovered that Begoña Gómez used an official Presidency email account as if she held a position at Moncloa. Additionally, the Director of Presidency Programs made direct inquiries with Complutense University regarding the chair, per emails provided by Gómez herself. Politically, Vox has announced it will seek charges against Sánchez and several ministers. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is reviewing a complaint against the Prime Minister for embezzlement, arguing that the State Legal Service’s lawsuit against Judge Peinado constituted irregular use of public funds.

With these elements, Sánchez’s July 30 testimony will not be a mere formality. Judge Peinado appears determined to go to the end, while Moncloa prepares to defend itself fiercely. The outcome remains uncertain.

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