Defending Innocence: Mercedes González Addresses Senate Over Allegations

In a highly anticipated testimony before the Senate, Mercedes González, the Director General of the Civil Guard, staunchly defended her innocence regarding her alleged involvement in the Leire case. Her declaration came in the wake of accusations concerning obstruction of justice linked to her communications with Leire Díez, a former socialist operative. González categorically dismissed any responsibility in discrediting the Central Operational Unit (UCO) or pressuring Civil Guard agents. "I have never participated in any campaign to discredit the UCO, nor have I taken measures against any agent related to ongoing investigations," she affirmed. During her testimony, González confirmed that she met with Díez twice, although she humorously clarified that they were not formal meetings but "two teas"—stating that she does not drink coffee. The first meeting occurred shortly after September 18, 2024, when Díez initiated contact to propose a meeting. González characterized this as a brief encounter focusing on Díez's return to journalism, with no discussion related to the Civil Guard. However, she expressed a lack of memory for the details of a subsequent meeting, stating, "I was in a meeting at the general directorate that day," even as reports indicated another encounter had taken place. She did manage to recall a third meeting in 2025, which again involved casual chatter, and she was quick to deny any conversations that could suggest interference with investigations. Moreover, González addressed the references to her name in various documents associated with the Leire case. Her name appears multiple times in reports compiled by the UCO, which detail meetings and exchanges with Díez, suggesting conversations that may raise questions about possible collusion. In the inquiry reports, it was noted that at least three meetings occurred, yet González only confirmed two that she remembered. The UCO's inquiry particularly scrutinized communication between González and other figures affiliated with the investigation, suggesting possible leaks. In her defense, González noted that two of three inquiries concerned administrative issues, asserting that no disciplinary action was taken. Furthermore, she highlighted that she always maintained a professional demeanor regarding her position within the Civil Guard and discredited the idea of any intended wrongdoing. Despite the intense scrutiny, González insisted she was not considering resigning from her position or distancing herself from Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, who has consistently supported her. "I reject any thoughts of stepping back. I have always demonstrated exemplary behavior towards my family, which is the Civil Guard," she stated emphatically. The Senate session saw a clash of perspectives, with various parliamentary groups probing into the allegations. Her insistence on her innocence and the absence of evidence linking her actions to any misconduct appears to be a significant component of her defense. As this case unfolds, the implications of her testimony will likely reverberate throughout the civil institutions of Spain, providing answers while also raising new questions about accountability and transparency within the government’s operational framework. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2