Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez took five days off to contemplate his future following the court’s decision to open preliminary proceedings against his wife, Begona Gomez, on corruption allegations. In a televised speech, Sanchez announced his decision to continue leading the government of Spain with even more strength.
Many questioned the need for the five-day hiatus, expecting Sanchez to either resign or call a confidence motion. However, Sanchez stated that after days of reflection, he sees his continuity as a new chapter dedicated to regenerating political life and combating what he perceives as a smear campaign from the far-right.
His resignation would have left Europe without a prominent Socialist prime minister ahead of the European elections. Despite claiming his decision was not politically motivated, Sanchez has mobilized his electorate and introduced a new narrative focusing on defending democratic integrity and institutions against the far-right.
In an emotional letter, Sanchez expressed his frustration with the legal probe against his wife, attributing it to politically aligned online news sites spreading baseless allegations. The Popular Party criticized Sanchez’s behavior, accusing him of neglecting his duties for five days as a political maneuver.
Sanchez’s decision to continue as Prime Minister marks a pivotal moment in Spanish politics, setting the stage for a heated battle in the upcoming European elections. The allegations against his wife and the subsequent response from opposition parties have intensified the political climate in Spain.