Former PSOE Leader Gallardo Claims Social Condemnation Ahead of Trial Verdict

Miguel Ángel Gallardo, the former president of the Provincial Council of Badajoz and ex-leader of the PSOE in Extremadura, has asserted his innocence in a trial alleging irregularities in the creation and awarding of a high-level position in 2017 to David Sánchez, the brother of the Prime Minister. The case also involves the subsequent change in the position's title in 2022 and the awarding of another post in 2023 to Luis Carrero, a friend of Sánchez's brother.

Speaking during his final statement at the Provincial Court of Badajoz, Gallardo reiterated that his "only culpability" is "not having the same ideas as the popular accusation." He expressed a sense of pre-judgment, stating, "They have already won the social trial, regardless of what comes out of this courtroom. It is clear that we have been condemned socially."

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They have already won the social trial, regardless of what comes out of this courtroom. It is clear that we have been condemned socially.

The trial concluded and is awaiting sentencing after hearing final arguments from the popular accusations, which seek prison sentences of up to six years for administrative prevarication combined with influence peddling. In contrast, the Prosecutor's Office and the defense teams are requesting acquittal, arguing that no criminal conduct has been proven in the events under review since May 28.

During the proceedings, the court heard testimony from 42 witnesses and 11 defendants, including David Sánchez and Miguel Ángel Gallardo. The case has drawn significant public attention due to the involvement of the Prime Minister's brother, placing Gallardo and others in a difficult position where they feel their reputations have already been tarnished, irrespective of the judicial outcome.

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my only culpability is not having the same ideas as the popular accusation.