Conservatives call for new elections in Spain
At a demonstration in Madrid, Spain's conservative People's Party (PP) called on the left-wing head of government Pedro Sánchez to clear the way for a new election. PP leader and opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo once again accused the ruling Socialists of corruption. "Submit to democracy. Call elections," said Feijóo at the rally under the slogan "Mafia or democracy". Central government representatives estimated the number of participants at up to 50,000, while the PP mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, spoke of 100,000 demonstrators. "We want to drive out the mafia as quickly as possible and restore our democracy," he said in front of cheering supporters.
08.06.2025, 14:20
SDA
Feijóo had previously attacked Sánchez head-on and spoken of an "indecent government" against which a "civic outcry and a thunderous call for freedom" was directed. Domestic political discourse in Spain is often characterized by strong exaggerations and derogatory statements about political opponents, which undermines the trust of many people in politicians according to surveys.
Despite the serious accusation that Sánchez is the "godfather" of a mafia organization, so to speak, Feijóo has not yet tabled a motion of censure against the minority government in parliament. To be successful, the opposition leader would have to rely on votes from regional parties. However, they would hardly vote for him if he also had the support of the right-wing populist Vox.
There are currently several allegations of corruption against the PSOE. The "Leire case" involves allegations of attempted influence peddling in judicial proceedings by a former party employee. Sánchez's brother is also being investigated for possible nepotism. Donations to PSOE-affiliated politicians in connection with a tax fraud case have also triggered investigations.
However, the PP has also been involved in corruption scandals in the past, involving illegal party funding, abuse of office, bribery and cover-ups.
