Thousands of Spaniards demand the Government’s resignation

Scandal in the PSOE

Key Figure and Positions
Santos Cerdán, longtime number three and former Secretary of Organization of the PSOE, has become the central figure in a corruption scandal, sparking a political earthquake within the party.

Explosive Revelations
The Guardia Civil released compromising audio recordings linking Cerdán, former minister José Luis Ábalos, and advisor Koldo García to bribery negotiations and kickbacks in public contracts (in Logroño and Seville), as well as possible payments connected to a Venezuelan oil company.

Sánchez’s Response
Pedro Sánchez publicly apologized, denied prior knowledge, and authorized an external audit and internal restructuring of the PSOE.

Although he ruled out calling early elections and vowed to remain in office until 2027, his government now faces instability within the coalition and growing pressure from its partners.

Immediate Consequences
Cerdán resigned from his internal party position and as a deputy, but remains a member of Congress.

The PP and other coalition parties are demanding further explanations and are calling into question the PSOE’s internal management and transparency.

Political Impact
The conservative bloc is using the opportunity to challenge Sánchez’s leadership, alleging the existence of a “mafia-like network” within the party. Meanwhile, coalition partners like Yolanda Díaz are calling for a “reset” of the government to restore public trust.

In summary, the involvement of one of Pedro Sánchez’s closest allies — Santos Cerdán — in a serious case of bribery and rigged contracts has triggered a crisis within the PSOE, forcing Sánchez to implement internal reforms and strengthen oversight, yet the government’s credibility remains under heavy pressure.