Judicial Associations Urge Attorney General to Skip Judicial Year Ceremony Amid Ongoing Investigation

In an unprecedented move, two major associations representing judges and prosecutors, along with a third organization of prosecutors, have formally requested that Attorney General Álvaro García Ortiz abstain from attending the upcoming ceremony for the opening of the Judicial Year, scheduled for this Friday. This request, articulated in a joint statement by the Professional Association of the Judiciary (APM), the Association of Prosecutors (AF), and the Professional and Independent Association of Prosecutors (APIF), is grounded in respect for the King, who will preside over the event. The associations expressed their disapproval of García Ortiz's presence at the ceremony, citing that it would be inappropriate to sit next to the King, particularly given that the Attorney General is currently under investigation for the alleged revelation of secrets. They emphasized that having a person facing prosecution beside the Head of State and judiciary representatives undermines the fundamental principles of the Rule of Law and, consequently, the credibility of the justice system. In their statement, they declared, "We request the Attorney General of the State to refrain from attending this solemn act out of respect for His Majesty the King and for those of us who are part of the judicial and prosecutorial careers." This collective stance also reflects significant concern about the public perception of justice and institutional integrity in the wake of ongoing investigations. While acknowledging the presumption of innocence afforded to García Ortiz, the associations made it clear that the respect for the institutions and their symbolic representation should prevail over personal interests, particularly for those serving in public positions. García Ortiz is currently facing six public accusations related to alleged misconduct involving the unauthorized disclosure of secrets pertaining to Alberto González Amador, a close associate of Madrid's president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso. The charges could lead to significant legal consequences, including prison sentences ranging from four to six years, along with potential disqualification lasting between four and twelve years, initiated by various entities including the Illustrious College of Lawyers of Madrid (ICAM), the organization Manos Limpias, and political factions such as Vox. The request to abstain from attending a significant judicial event highlights the ongoing tension within the Spanish judicial system, as public figures grapple with accountability while upholding the sanctity of legal institutions. As the situation evolves, the implications for both the Attorney General's career and the broader judicial landscape remain to be seen. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3