Lorraine Williamson
Tensions between Spain’s main political parties are intensifying. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is facing renewed pressure from both within and outside his government.
Meanwhile, the conservative Partido Popular (PP) is ramping up its efforts on the streets and in the regions to challenge the Socialist-led administration.
Sánchez faces renewed scrutiny amid multiple investigations
Controversy surrounding the prime minister has been mounting since last April, when Sánchez temporarily stepped back from public duties. Moreover, his decision followed news that his wife, Begoña Gómez, was under judicial investigation.
In response, the Socialist Party (PSOE) has described the situation as a “mafia-style campaign,” which it claims is being driven by far-right groups, political opponents, and aligned media outlets. Party insiders argue that this campaign seeks to discredit the prime minister personally and destabilise the government’s agenda.
Complicating matters further are additional cases involving individuals close to Sánchez. These include the Koldo García corruption case and a regional probe into Sánchez’s brother, David, over his appointment in Badajoz. Socialists believe these cases are being strategically used to erode public trust.
Feijóo under internal pressure ahead of planned protest
Meanwhile, PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo is facing internal criticism from the party’s more hardline factions. Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the president of the Madrid region, is among those pushing for a more combative approach towards Sánchez.
To reassert control and galvanise public opposition, Feijóo is leading a major protest in Madrid on 8 June. The event is seen as a test of his leadership and a possible step towards forcing early elections.
PP seeks wider debate at Conference of Presidents
The political confrontation is also set to play out at the upcoming Conference of Presidents on 6 June in Barcelona. The PP is pressing for an expanded agenda. While the central government has proposed focusing on affordable housing and education, PP-led regions are demanding discussion on broader issues.
These include regional financing, healthcare staffing shortages, illegal property occupations, immigration, water distribution, and infrastructure planning. Some regional leaders have even threatened to boycott the conference if their demands are ignored. Others are considering using their Senate majority to force changes.
June set to be a crucial month for Spanish politics
The PSOE accuses the PP of prioritising institutional disruption over constructive dialogue. In turn, the PP claims the Sánchez government is misusing power and avoiding accountability.
With protests planned, political manoeuvring in parliament, and tensions ahead of the Conference of Presidents, the coming weeks could prove pivotal. Spain is bracing for a summer shaped by deepening political divisions and mounting public discontent.