Else Beekman
Spain’s ruling Socialist party (PSOE) is facing its most serious corruption scandal in years, as fresh revelations in the so-called “Koldo case” implicate senior party figures and cast a shadow over Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s leadership.
The investigation, led by Spain’s Civil Guard and the Supreme Court, centres on public contracts allegedly awarded in exchange for bribes during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. At the heart of the case are former minister José Luis Ábalos, current PSOE secretary Santos Cerdán, and their close aide, Koldo García.
Raids and legal action intensify
On Thursday, the Civil Guard’s Central Operative Unit (UCO) raided both the PSOE headquarters in Madrid and the Ministry of Transport. Officers cloned internal email accounts belonging to Cerdán and Ábalos as part of a widening probe into potential corruption and influence peddling. Authorities are now reviewing contracts awarded by public entities, including Adif, Spain’s railway infrastructure manager, and the Directorate-General for Roads.
The Supreme Court has summoned Cerdán to testify on 30 June, formally charging him with bribery and involvement in a criminal organisation. His legal team has requested a delay to review case documents. Banking records and business ties connected to Cerdán and his relatives are also under scrutiny.
Allegations of illicit enrichment
Investigators allege that at least €620,000 in kickbacks changed hands through Koldo García’s network. Some sources even suggest the figure could reach €650,000. The funds are believed to have come from public procurement deals related to medical supplies during the pandemic and from broader infrastructure projects while Ábalos served as Minister of Transport.
One key development is Cerdán’s partial ownership, nearly 50%, of Servinabar 2000 SL, a company awarded substantial contracts in Navarre. Prosecutors believe this could indicate a direct financial link between political decision-making and contract awards.
Further evidence includes audio recordings in which García allegedly discusses payments and “debts” tied to public tenders. However, Ábalos insists these comments were taken out of context and denies receiving any illicit benefits. He claims he was “used” by his subordinates and maintains that he neither orchestrated nor profited from the scheme.
Political fallout for Sánchez
Prime Minister Sánchez has publicly acknowledged the damage caused by the scandal, expressing regret for placing trust in individuals now under investigation. He has promised an independent audit of party finances and a restructuring of the PSOE executive.
Despite this, the opposition remains unconvinced. In a heated session in parliament, Sánchez accused the conservative Partido Popular (PP) of hypocrisy, labelling it “an encyclopedia of corruption.” In response, the PP and the far-right Vox party demanded Sánchez’s resignation. They hinted at a possible motion of no confidence—though they currently lack the necessary support to trigger it.
A coalition under pressure
The scandal has unsettled Sánchez’s coalition. Fractures appear among the parties that keep his government afloat. Sumar, PNV, and Junts have so far held back from direct criticism. However, tensions are rising behind closed doors. Many are waiting to see how deep the fallout will go, and whether it might affect their own standing with voters.
The timing is especially delicate. Even a small shift in support could derail the government’s agenda, with budget negotiations and regional deals in the balance. Trust, already in short supply among coalition allies, is wearing thin.
Meanwhile, outside the PSOE’s Ferraz headquarters, demonstrators have been calling for accountability and transparency. Their message is clear: the public wants answers, and they want them fast.
What to expect next
The coming weeks will be critical for both the investigation and the political future of the Sánchez government. If Cerdán’s testimony proceeds as planned on 30 June, it could provide vital insight into the extent of the alleged corruption. Meanwhile, Ábalos and García are also expected to appear before the court.
As legal proceedings continue, pressure is mounting for Sánchez to either assert control and reassure the public, or risk further erosion of support from within his own party and the electorate.
Sources: El País, OndaCero, Reuters
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