A defendant in a Spanish corruption trial claims Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez led an organization that rigged public contracts and illegally funded his Socialist party. The accusation came from Víctor de Aldama, a businessman facing trial for allegedly receiving kickbacks for irregular mask contract awards during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aldama testified that profits from the scheme funded the Socialists, placing Sánchez at "level one" of a criminal hierarchy, followed by former minister José Luis Ábalos and ex-adviser Koldo García. Both Ábalos and García have denied the allegations. Aldama also recounted a conversation where Sánchez allegedly expressed gratitude to him.
The trial is part of a series of investigations into alleged corruption involving Sánchez's family and political allies, which have destabilized his minority government. Prosecutors are seeking 24 years in prison for Ábalos on multiple charges.
These scandals have damaged Sánchez's reformist image and strained relations with coalition partners, while the opposition calls for his resignation and early elections. Sánchez denies illegal party financing and intends to complete his term until 2027.