Spain's PM vows to press on despite ex-minister's corruption conviction
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said Tuesday that his government would continue its work, despite mounting political pressure following the 24-year prison sentence handed to his former right-hand man, ex-transport minister José Luis Ábalos.
Sánchez defended his administration during the announcement of new support measures for people with disabilities, a day after the Supreme Court sentenced José Luis Ábalos to 24 years in prison.
Without mentioning Ábalos directly, the Socialist premier said his government remained focused on improving people's lives and expanding social rights.
"To those who ask why this government wants to continue despite all the difficulties and obstacles along the way, this is my answer," he said, referring to the social measures due to be approved by his cabinet.
"We continue to improve people's lives. We continue to expand and consolidate social rights. We continue to build a fairer and better Spain."
The court found Ábalos - a former Socialist heavyweight who helped propel Sánchez to power in 2018 - guilty of membership of a criminal organisation, bribery, embezzlement of public funds and influence peddling.
His conviction has intensified calls from conservative and far-right opposition parties for Sánchez to resign.
The case is one of several investigations into alleged corruption by Sánchez's family and ex-political allies that have threatened to topple his minority coalition.
Sánchez has repeatedly rejected calls to step down, arguing that his government should be judged on its record in office and its social and economic policies.
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