Madrid Court Revives Case of Alleged Threats Against President Sánchez Following Disturbing Protest

The Provincial Court of Madrid has ordered the reopening of a case concerning alleged threats against Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. This decision comes in light of events that transpired on December 31, 2023, where a doll representing Sánchez was subjected to violent treatment in front of the PSOE headquarters located on Ferraz Street. Accessing a ruling by Europa Press, it has been reported that the judges upheld an appeal from the Prosecutor's Office and partially supported appeals made by Sánchez and the PSOE, thereby reversing the initial decision by the instructing judge to archive the case. However, their request to transfer the case to the National Court—a claim based on allegations of slander and threats against the government—was dismissed. The judges further stated that the actions depicted during the protest could be interpreted as an alleged crime of threats rather than hate crimes or slander. They highlighted the violent imagery of the protest, including the hanging and brutal beating of the effigy along with other forms of symbolic humiliation, as having created a sufficiently intimidating scenario designed to instill fear. The ruling noted that the threats voiced during the demonstration, which included lines like 'hang him by the feet' and 'burn Ferraz', underscored an atmosphere of serious intimidation that warranted legal attention. Despite occurring within the context of a protest—which typically enjoys the protection of free speech—the court asserted that the intensity of the threats exhibited at the event did not bear sufficient justification under the pretext of exercising freedom of expression. While the legitimacy of such demonstrations may not be questioned at first glance, the gravity of the specific threats raised significant legal concerns. This development reignites discussions regarding the boundaries of protest and the implications of perceived threats against political figures in Spain, particularly in an era when political tensions are prominent. Observers will likely be keenly watching how the legal proceedings will unfold as they assess the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of public officials from intimidation. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2