Minister Defends PSOE's Action Amidst Corruption Allegations
The Spanish Minister of Education and Government spokesperson, Pilar Alegría, took a firm stance this Tuesday regarding the swift actions taken by the Executive and the PSOE after a report from the UCO implicated Secretary Santos Cerdán in bribery schemes connected to the Koldo network for public work contracts. Alegría stated, 'No organization is free from having a case of corruption. The difference lies in how action is taken.'
During a press conference following the Council of Ministers meeting, Alegría acknowledged that the party made mistakes by placing trust in individuals Ábalos and Cerdán. However, she emphasized that the current situation should not tarnish the reputations of other honest party members. 'You cannot create that shadow of doubt or accept that everyone is the same,' she remarked, emphasizing a commitment to integrity within the organization.
She further conceded uncertainty regarding whether additional names might emerge in the investigation but reassured that any substantial evidence against any individual would prompt an equally strong response from the party.
Commenting on the situation, Alegría described the links between Cerdán, Ábalos, and Koldo as a 'toxic triangle,' asserting the PSOE's immediate demand for accountability from Cerdán following the revelations in the UCO report. 'This Government has always collaborated with Justice. And in response to a very solid report that is not yet judicialized, the answer was forceful. And that is how we will always act,' she stated firmly.
In addition to addressing individual accountability, Alegría championed the legislative measures introduced by the Government to combat corruption effectively. She confirmed that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is scheduled to appear in Congress to discuss the Koldo case on July 9, explaining that his delayed appearance is due to pressing international engagements. 'He has very important international meetings,' she defended, reiterating the Government's commitment to addressing the unfolding situation responsibly.
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