Investigation into Koldo Case: Key Developments Involving Former Minister José Luis Ábalos
Judge Ismael Moreno of the National Court is currently investigating the so-called Koldo case, which revolves around the awarding of masks during the pandemic. A significant development in this investigation is the judge’s request for the Congress of Deputies to issue a certification verifying the parliamentary status of former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos.
In a recent providence accessed by EFE, Judge Moreno has formally asked the Presidency of the National Court to route this request through the appropriate channels, specifically seeking confirmation from Congress President Francina Armengol regarding Ábalos's status as a deputy. This action appears to be a crucial initial step that could potentially lead the Supreme Court to investigate whether Ábalos was involved in any irregularities related to the awarding of public contracts for masks to a specific company.
It is important to note that Judge Moreno does not have jurisdiction over a possible investigation into Ábalos, who is currently not indicted in the ongoing case. As a serving deputy, Ábalos is protected under parliamentary privilege, granting the Supreme Court the authority to pursue any investigations concerning him.
In conjunction with this development, the magistrate referred to a recent report from the Central Operational Unit (UCO), dated October 8. This report has been forwarded to the Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office for their review and further action as deemed necessary under the law.
The Koldo case is gaining additional attention due to the involvement of various high-ranking officials and businessmen, including Koldo García, a former advisor to José Luis Ábalos. Victoro de Aldama, considered to be an intermediary in this matter, is also among those being scrutinized as part of the National Court's investigation.
As the situation unfolds, it highlights the complexities and potential ramifications surrounding public contracting practices during the pandemic, as well as the intertwined nature of political and legal investigations. The public and the media will be keenly observing how the developments regarding Ábalos and others implicated in the Koldo case progress in the coming weeks.
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