PSOE Backs Santos Cerdán Amid Controversy Over Alleged Commission Receipts
The Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) has rallied behind Santos Cerdán, following emerging reports that link the current Secretary of Organization to allegations of receiving commissions for public works contracts. These claims stem from a recorded conversation seized by the Central Operational Unit (UCO), which has been forwarded to the Supreme Court and is part of a wider investigation that also targets José Luis Ábalos, the former Minister of Transport and predecessor to Cerdán's organizational role.
In a public statement disseminated to the media, the PSOE vehemently defended Cerdán, asserting that he has neither participated nor had any influence over public works contracts, and has certainly not received any commissions related to them. The party emphasized that once the full report is disclosed, Cerdán will be ready to provide comprehensive explanations, aiming to clear his name from associations with unrelated cases. The PSOE text concluded with a strong assertion of Cerdán's integrity and importance within the party’s structure, noting that he holds a significant position as the number three in the organization.
Cerdán has been instrumental in negotiating with political parties, including Junts and Carles Puigdemont in Belgium, and has played a key role in various parliamentary agreements. Nonetheless, the party expressed regret over the leak of police operations, describing it as a persistent issue that sparks media trials and leaves individuals defenseless.
The audio leak implicating Cerdán emerged just a day after a search was conducted at Ábalos' residence, coinciding with other documents that surfaced, linking the former minister and his associates to the acceptance of bribes for public works concessions. This development has raised concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of those in positions of power within the Socialist Party.
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