The Intrigue Surrounding David Sánchez's Role in Badajoz's Local Government
Pedro Sánchez's brother stands trial over public administration irregularities in Spain.
David Sánchez Pérez-Castejón, brother of Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, appeared in court in Badajoz on Thursday to face charges related to alleged offenses against public administration and tax authorities.
The judge, Beatriz Biedma, presided over the proceedings, which began at 9:44 and concluded shortly after 11:00.
Sánchez opted not to answer questions from the private prosecution, represented by the organization Manos Limpias.
El Mundo reports that David Sánchez, who holds a position with the Provincial Council of Badajoz, claimed he works diligently despite accusations of absenteeism.
He cited frequent performances in Portugal, Madrid, and Barcelona, along with travels within the Badajoz province, as reasons for not regularly being at the council’s facilities.
He explained, "I go whenever necessary.
I do not have a fixed workspace, but I work every day."
Controversy shrouds the origins of Sánchez's role as coordinator of the provincial music conservatories, especially given his previously known connection to St. Petersburg and absence of ties to Extremadura.
Sánchez testified that he learned about the job opportunity via an internet search in 2017.
He also noted completing a master's in Milan around September 2016 and having international projects like an orchestral premiere in Toulouse, France during that period.
At the time, he declared no acquaintance with anyone in Badajoz or from the political sphere within the region.
Miguel Ángel Gallardo, president of the Provincial Council of Badajoz and secretary-general of the socialist party in Extremadura, testified following Sánchez.
Gallardo distanced himself from any involvement with the hiring process, claiming he was unaware that Pedro Sánchez had a brother at the time of the appointment.
He further emphasized that during the announcement phase of the position in October 2016, Pedro Sánchez was not leading the PSOE, and Gallardo noted he endorsed Pedro Sánchez's primary opponent, Susana Díaz.
Heightened security was evident at the court as protesters from the organization Hazte Oír gathered outside, leading to Sánchez entering and leaving via the garage, a decision overseen by the decanal judge for safety concerns, as his lawyer Emilio Cortés cited.
A significant element in the trial involves the erasure of critical emails.
Information provided by the UCO (Central Operation Unit of the Civil Guard) during their searches failed to retrieve all communications between high-ranking members of the council, with a report pointing out gaps that may be pivotal.
Testimonies suggested potential misconduct, leading Manos Limpias to call for charges against Yolanda Sánchez, a conservatory director.
The investigatory focus extends beyond the initial 2017 appointment of Sánchez.
Judge Beatriz Biedma has sought clarity on the redefinition of his position in December 2022 to 'head of scenic arts.' Despite requests, the council only provided partial documentation of the regulations governing such changes.
In contrast, the new role reportedly involves more expansive musical responsibilities, yet disagreements exist on his specific duties, as evidenced by disparities noted in conservatory communications.
Implications of these revelations remain unclear.
With further deliberations needed, the trial's developments continue to be a subject of public and political interest, exemplifying issues of governance and accountability within public institutions in Spain.
The judge, Beatriz Biedma, presided over the proceedings, which began at 9:44 and concluded shortly after 11:00.
Sánchez opted not to answer questions from the private prosecution, represented by the organization Manos Limpias.
El Mundo reports that David Sánchez, who holds a position with the Provincial Council of Badajoz, claimed he works diligently despite accusations of absenteeism.
He cited frequent performances in Portugal, Madrid, and Barcelona, along with travels within the Badajoz province, as reasons for not regularly being at the council’s facilities.
He explained, "I go whenever necessary.
I do not have a fixed workspace, but I work every day."
Controversy shrouds the origins of Sánchez's role as coordinator of the provincial music conservatories, especially given his previously known connection to St. Petersburg and absence of ties to Extremadura.
Sánchez testified that he learned about the job opportunity via an internet search in 2017.
He also noted completing a master's in Milan around September 2016 and having international projects like an orchestral premiere in Toulouse, France during that period.
At the time, he declared no acquaintance with anyone in Badajoz or from the political sphere within the region.
Miguel Ángel Gallardo, president of the Provincial Council of Badajoz and secretary-general of the socialist party in Extremadura, testified following Sánchez.
Gallardo distanced himself from any involvement with the hiring process, claiming he was unaware that Pedro Sánchez had a brother at the time of the appointment.
He further emphasized that during the announcement phase of the position in October 2016, Pedro Sánchez was not leading the PSOE, and Gallardo noted he endorsed Pedro Sánchez's primary opponent, Susana Díaz.
Heightened security was evident at the court as protesters from the organization Hazte Oír gathered outside, leading to Sánchez entering and leaving via the garage, a decision overseen by the decanal judge for safety concerns, as his lawyer Emilio Cortés cited.
A significant element in the trial involves the erasure of critical emails.
Information provided by the UCO (Central Operation Unit of the Civil Guard) during their searches failed to retrieve all communications between high-ranking members of the council, with a report pointing out gaps that may be pivotal.
Testimonies suggested potential misconduct, leading Manos Limpias to call for charges against Yolanda Sánchez, a conservatory director.
The investigatory focus extends beyond the initial 2017 appointment of Sánchez.
Judge Beatriz Biedma has sought clarity on the redefinition of his position in December 2022 to 'head of scenic arts.' Despite requests, the council only provided partial documentation of the regulations governing such changes.
In contrast, the new role reportedly involves more expansive musical responsibilities, yet disagreements exist on his specific duties, as evidenced by disparities noted in conservatory communications.
Implications of these revelations remain unclear.
With further deliberations needed, the trial's developments continue to be a subject of public and political interest, exemplifying issues of governance and accountability within public institutions in Spain.
Translation:
Translated by AI
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