A Spanish judge has ordered Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's wife, Begoña Gómez, to face trial on corruption charges and surrender her passport, according to The Associated Press. The decision marks a significant escalation in a legal case that has already shaken Spanish politics.
Judge's ruling and charges
The judge's order, issued June 20, 2026, requires Gómez to appear in court on allegations of influence peddling and business corruption. The charges stem from her professional activities during Sánchez's tenure as prime minister. Gómez must also surrender her passport and is prohibited from leaving Spain without judicial authorization.
According to the ruling, the trial will proceed after investigators found sufficient evidence linking Gómez to improper dealings involving private companies and government contracts. The case has been closely watched as it directly involves the spouse of the sitting prime minister.
Political and legal context
The corruption probe was initiated by a Spanish court earlier this year, leading to multiple searches and seizures of documents. Sánchez has defended his wife, calling the accusations politically motivated. The prime minister has not stepped down, but the case has intensified scrutiny on his government's ethics and transparency.
Legal experts note that the surrender of a passport is a standard precaution in corruption cases where there is a flight risk. The trial date has not yet been set, but proceedings are expected to begin within months.
Impact on Spanish politics
The ruling has deepened the political crisis surrounding Sánchez's administration. Opposition parties have called for the prime minister's resignation, arguing that the allegations undermine public trust. Sánchez, however, has maintained his innocence and vowed to continue leading the country.
The case has also sparked debate about judicial independence and political interference in Spain. Polls show a divided public, with some supporting the investigation and others viewing it as a partisan attack. The trial is likely to dominate headlines in the coming months, potentially affecting the government's ability to pass legislation and manage other crises.
