Former Transport Minister Ábalos Suspended by Congress Amid Legal Troubles

On Wednesday, the Congress Bureau made a significant decision to suspend former Transport Minister and Socialist Party Secretary of Organization, José Luis Ábalos, from his salary and parliamentary rights. This move follows the Supreme Court's dismissal of appeals from Ábalos and fellow defendant Koldo García concerning a case related to the procurement of masks. In the wake of this suspension, Ábalos has expressed his intention to continue fulfilling his duties as a deputy, despite his impending incarceration in Soto del Real prison. "As I remain a deputy with all my rights and parliamentary prerogatives intact, I have requested the Congress Bureau's authorization to exercise my right to vote remotely in today's sessions, if they occur, and tomorrow December 11," Ábalos stated via his account on the social media platform X. However, after an urgent meeting of the relevant parliamentary body, it was confirmed that Ábalos would not be permitted to vote remotely and would, in fact, be deprived of his salary. This suspension marks a notable shift in the structure of the Congress of Deputies, reducing the assembly from 350 deputies to 349. In an era marked by narrow voting margins, this reduction in membership could significantly complicate the Executive's efforts to secure passage for its proposed legislation in the future. The implications of this decision extend beyond individual consequences for Ábalos; they also reverberate throughout the legislative landscape, possibly impacting the balance of power within the Congress as the political climate continues to evolve. The political ramifications of Ábalos's suspension will likely be a point of discussion in upcoming sessions, as party leaders strategize on how to navigate potential challenges posed by a reduced parliamentary body. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2