Galician Minister Resigns Amid Sexual Assault Investigation
Alfonso Villares, the Marine Minister of the Xunta de Galicia, announced his resignation on Wednesday as he faces an investigation for alleged sexual assault. In a press conference held urgently in Santiago de Compostela, supported by senior officials from his department, Villares expressed his commitment to maintaining his innocence, asserting that the case is a personal matter.
In a statement filled with resolve, he said, "Resigning to defend myself against an accusation of which I know I am completely innocent is a very difficult decision, but I am convinced it is the right one." His resignation is a significant move, as he aims to avoid any implications of the ongoing investigation affecting the Xunta or regional institutions.
According to reports from La Voz de Galicia, Villares has been notified by the Superior Tribunal of Justice regarding the investigation stemming from a complaint filed a few months prior in Ferrol. Villares, a member of the People's Party, had assumed the role of Marine Minister in 2023 after serving as mayor of Cervo since 2007. His decision to step down comes at a critical time as the region's political landscape could be impacted by the allegations against him.
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