Former Móstoles Councilor Files Lawsuit Against Mayor Manuel Bautista for Alleged Harassment

In a significant legal development, the former councilor of Móstoles, who previously filed an internal complaint against Mayor Manuel Bautista of the Popular Party (PP), has officially lodged a lawsuit citing alleged sexual and labor harassment, along with accusations of moral integrity injuries, coercion, and disclosure of secrets. Attorney Antonio Suárez-Valdés confirmed to EFE that the suit was submitted Monday in the criminal division of the Móstoles Madrid Court of First Instance. The lawsuit targets not only Mayor Bautista but also the PP as a legal entity, referencing articles 184.5 and 31bis of the Penal Code. The attorney highlighted that the failure of internal victim protection mechanisms and the lack of institutional response from the PP have compelled their client to pursue criminal action, a route she had initially hoped to avoid. "The initial omission and subsequent negligence forced us to seek direct legal protection," said Suárez-Valdés. In response, Mayor Bautista has portrayed himself as a victim, asserting there is a concerted campaign against him. He denies the accusations, stating, "There is neither sexual nor labor harassment here.” Bautista has suggested that the lawsuit may be a tactic to politically undermine the PP ahead of the upcoming elections in Aragon, even going so far as to accuse the former councilor of attempting to engage in political blackmail. This case underscores the ongoing challenges surrounding workplace conduct and the responsibilities of political organizations to effectively handle allegations of harassment. It remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will unfold and if they will cast a shadow over the PP as they approach key electoral contests. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2