Sánchez Reaffirms Leadership Amid Corruption Scandal and Outlines Anti-Corruption Measures

In a revealing address to the Congress of Deputies, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez disclosed that he once contemplated resignation in light of the UCO report linking Santos Cerdán to the Koldo case. However, he ultimately decided against it, affirming his commitment to lead, stating, "Throwing in the towel is never an option." Sánchez spoke in a special session aimed at discussing the corruption allegations involving members of the PSOE party. He articulated three primary reasons for his decision to remain in office: first, he claimed ignorance regarding the corrupt activities of the implicated individuals; second, he expressed his aspiration to regain the trust of parliamentary groups under pressure; and finally, he emphasized that the governance project of his administration transcends his individual leadership and remains unfinished. The Prime Minister faced criticism from opposition parties such as the People's Party (PP) and Vox, who have branded him a self-absorbed leader. He countered these allegations by describing his role as an "immense opportunity to positively transform people’s lives." Sánchez acknowledged his disappointment with those he had trusted, specifically Ábalos and Cerdán, both of whom he appointed and later expelled due to their implication in the corruption scandal. Reflecting on the past years, he explained, "I met Santos Cerdán in 2014 when I became the party's secretary general. He was instrumental in my success in the 2017 primaries. This trust was my mistake." Upon hearing rumors about Cerdán’s involvement in corruption, Sánchez initially experienced disbelief. He had reached out to Cerdán, who denied any wrongdoing, and Sánchez admitted that he let trust cloud his judgment. "It is evident that I was wrong. We found out about the UCO report at the same time as the public; there is no patriotic police in my government," he remarked, expressing the shock and disappointment that followed the revelations. While Sánchez maintained that corruption in Spain is not systemic, he recognized the necessity for enhanced measures to combat it, particularly within his party. He announced formidable new rules for transparency and commitments to feminist principles within the PSOE. Moreover, he introduced a comprehensive national plan aimed at fighting corruption, which includes 15 substantial measures developed in collaboration with the OECD. This plan is touted as the most significant initiative in decades toward combating corruption in Spain. Sánchez's declaration of intent to fight corruption head-on, coupled with his resolve to remain in office, underscores a determination to steer the PSOE through turbulent times and restore faith in the political body. As the situation unfolds, the efficacy of these promised reforms remains to be seen. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2