Galician Minister Resigns Amid Sexual Assault Investigation
Alfonso Villares steps down as Minister of the Sea following allegations made by television presenter Paloma Lago.
Alfonso Villares, the Galician Minister of the Sea, announced his resignation on June 4, 2025, following the disclosure that he is under investigation for alleged sexual assault.
The allegations were made by Paloma Lago, a well-known television presenter and model from Ferrol.
In a press conference convened on short notice, Villares emphasized his innocence regarding the accusations leveled against him.
Villares, who has been a prominent figure in Galician politics for three decades, described this moment as one of the most challenging of his career.
He stressed that the matter pertains solely to his personal life and asserted that resigning from his post as Minister was the appropriate decision.
"For me, there is no other option," he stated.
In his statement, Villares indicated that he wished to face the judicial process like any other citizen, voluntarily relinquishing his status as a protected official to avoid any procedural advantages or presumptions regarding his innocence.
He expressed hope for a swift resolution to the case, declaring his intention to return to political life as soon as possible.
The investigation stems from a complaint filed several months ago in Ferrol, alleging a crime against sexual freedom.
Given Villares's protected status as a minister, the initial inquiry was referred to the High Court of Justice of Galicia.
With his resignation, the case will return to the jurisdiction of the Ferrol courts, as he no longer retains this special status.
Reports indicate that Villares and Lago previously had a romantic relationship.
Following the news of Villares's resignation, Noa Presas, a member of the opposition party Bloque Nacionalista Galego (BNG), condemned the allegations, describing the situation as extremely serious for women in Galicia.
Presas criticized the government, noting that a public official accused of sexual assault cannot be considered a private matter.
She emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation and called for accountability from the Galician President, Alfonso Rueda.
The Socialist Party of Galicia also weighed in, expressing respect for Villares's decision to step down in light of the investigation.
Paloma Castro, the party's spokesperson for equality, labeled such allegations as absolutely unacceptable for anyone, particularly those holding public office.
She called for justice to be pursued with the utmost diligence while urging the Galician President to provide clear explanations regarding the situation.
Alfonso Villares began his political career in 1995, serving as a councilor in his hometown of Cervo, Lugo.
He transitioned to veterinary work after graduating from the University of Santiago de Compostela but later achieved significant electoral success, including a 16-year tenure as mayor following multiple reelection victories.
Despite his prominent role, Villares recently was appointed Minister of the Sea in 2023, replacing Rosa Quintana.
In response to Villares's resignation, President Rueda expressed a desire for a swift judicial process, stating that he hoped Villares could return to public life.
Rueda acknowledged Villares's decision as a testament to his conviction in his innocence and maintained respect for the judicial process.
The allegations were made by Paloma Lago, a well-known television presenter and model from Ferrol.
In a press conference convened on short notice, Villares emphasized his innocence regarding the accusations leveled against him.
Villares, who has been a prominent figure in Galician politics for three decades, described this moment as one of the most challenging of his career.
He stressed that the matter pertains solely to his personal life and asserted that resigning from his post as Minister was the appropriate decision.
"For me, there is no other option," he stated.
In his statement, Villares indicated that he wished to face the judicial process like any other citizen, voluntarily relinquishing his status as a protected official to avoid any procedural advantages or presumptions regarding his innocence.
He expressed hope for a swift resolution to the case, declaring his intention to return to political life as soon as possible.
The investigation stems from a complaint filed several months ago in Ferrol, alleging a crime against sexual freedom.
Given Villares's protected status as a minister, the initial inquiry was referred to the High Court of Justice of Galicia.
With his resignation, the case will return to the jurisdiction of the Ferrol courts, as he no longer retains this special status.
Reports indicate that Villares and Lago previously had a romantic relationship.
Following the news of Villares's resignation, Noa Presas, a member of the opposition party Bloque Nacionalista Galego (BNG), condemned the allegations, describing the situation as extremely serious for women in Galicia.
Presas criticized the government, noting that a public official accused of sexual assault cannot be considered a private matter.
She emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation and called for accountability from the Galician President, Alfonso Rueda.
The Socialist Party of Galicia also weighed in, expressing respect for Villares's decision to step down in light of the investigation.
Paloma Castro, the party's spokesperson for equality, labeled such allegations as absolutely unacceptable for anyone, particularly those holding public office.
She called for justice to be pursued with the utmost diligence while urging the Galician President to provide clear explanations regarding the situation.
Alfonso Villares began his political career in 1995, serving as a councilor in his hometown of Cervo, Lugo.
He transitioned to veterinary work after graduating from the University of Santiago de Compostela but later achieved significant electoral success, including a 16-year tenure as mayor following multiple reelection victories.
Despite his prominent role, Villares recently was appointed Minister of the Sea in 2023, replacing Rosa Quintana.
In response to Villares's resignation, President Rueda expressed a desire for a swift judicial process, stating that he hoped Villares could return to public life.
Rueda acknowledged Villares's decision as a testament to his conviction in his innocence and maintained respect for the judicial process.
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