Spain's Sanchez Presents Anti-Corruption Package Amid Party Scandal

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez unveiled a comprehensive anti-corruption plan in response to a major scandal involving senior members of his Socialist Party, including the former number three, Santos Cerdán, who was detained over alleged kickbacks related to public contracts. Sánchez rejected calls for early elections, asserting his innocence and commitment to continue his political project, while announcing 15 measures designed with the OECD and endorsed by coalition partners to enhance transparency and accountability. Key initiatives include establishing an independent Public Integrity Agency to oversee corruption prevention and prosecution, mandatory anti-corruption compliance for companies contracting with the government, stricter controls and audits for political parties receiving public funds, and harsher sanctions for parties retaining convicted individuals. The scandal has shaken public trust and prompted demands for accountability from both coalition partner Sumar and opposition parties like the conservative People's Party, which has called for Sánchez's resignation and a no-confidence vote. Sánchez also initiated internal reforms within his party to reduce power concentration, protect whistleblowers, and remove allies of the indicted officials from leadership roles. Despite the turmoil, Sánchez emphasized his determination to stay in office and implement the reforms to restore integrity and stability to his government.