A Madrid court has ordered Begoña Gómez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, to stand trial by jury on corruption charges and has revoked her passport, according to a ruling released on Saturday. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado also imposed a ban on her leaving the country, requiring her to appear before the court twice a month until a verdict is reached.
The precautionary measures apply to Gómez and Cristina Álvarez, an adviser at the Moncloa Palace. The court stated that instructions will be issued to all border posts and airports to enforce the travel ban. A third defendant, businessman Juan Carlos Barrabés, is not subject to these restrictions. Sources close to Gómez indicate she will appeal the measures, particularly the confiscation of her passport.
Charges and Legal Controversy
In April, Judge Peinado formally charged Gómez with embezzlement, influence peddling, corruption in business dealings, and misappropriation of funds. The case centers on the creation and management of a chair at Madrid’s Complutense University, co-directed by Gómez, and the alleged use of public resources and personal connections to advance private interests. The judge wrote that the chair served as a means of private professional development for the person under investigation.
The ruling follows a preliminary hearing where accusing parties requested a jury trial and restrictions to prevent flight risk. In contrast, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and defense teams argued for dismissal, citing insufficient evidence. The proceedings have been marked by intense legal and political controversy, with both the prosecution and defense challenging the investigation's conduct.
The case originated from a complaint filed by an anti-corruption group with far-right ties. Sánchez has dismissed the allegations as an attempt by the right wing to undermine his government. This is one of several corruption affairs that have embroiled the Socialist leader’s family and former allies, threatening his minority coalition government. The broader political context includes ongoing scrutiny of Spanish political figures, as seen in the widening graft probe into former PM Zapatero.
The case has drawn attention to the stability of Sánchez's government, which relies on a fragile coalition. The prime minister has previously championed a more open Europe, as highlighted in his advocacy for deeper EU integration. However, the ongoing legal battles risk undermining his domestic agenda.
Gómez's defense team is expected to file an appeal in the coming days, arguing that the precautionary measures are disproportionate. The court's decision adds to the political pressure on Sánchez, who has faced multiple corruption allegations against his inner circle. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for Spanish politics, potentially triggering early elections if the coalition collapses.
