In Mostoles (Madrid), a meeting of the local security commission turned into a heated conflict between the city’s mayor, Manuel Bautista (PP), and the government’s delegate in Madrid, Francisco Martín. The reason was the ongoing investigation against the mayor over allegations of sexual and workplace harassment brought by a former party colleague.
Open conflict at the meeting
At the start of the meeting, Francisco Martín publicly stated that Manuel Bautista should not have presided over the event due to his legal situation. According to the delegate, the mayor has not only refused to resign but also continues to hold his position despite facing proceedings for threats, insults, and mockery towards the complainant. Martín stressed that he considers Bautista’s involvement in discussions on security issues related to crimes against women unacceptable.
Mayor’s response and plans for legal action
Manuel Bautista sharply condemned the delegate’s remarks, calling his actions “unacceptable” and “shameful.” According to the mayor, Martín drew attention away from the core agenda by focusing on the criminal case. Bautista again denied all accusations, accusing the government of attempting to discredit him and his party. He also announced plans to file a lawsuit against Francisco Martín for defamation and for using the official platform for political purposes.
Investigation details and party reactions
The case against the mayor of Mostoles was accepted for consideration by the city court a week ago. The former member of the municipality, before turning to the court, tried to gain support within the party but, according to her, faced pressure not to bring the conflict into the public eye. After the information about the case was published in the media, the complaint was referred to a specialized court for cases of violence against women, which found evidence of sexual and labor-related offenses. The hearing is scheduled for the end of June.
Political resonance
The situation sparked a sharp reaction at both regional and national levels. The leader of the Partido Popular Alberto Núñez Feijóo and the president of the Community of Madrid Ayuso expressed their support for Bautista, calling the accusations fabricated. The government delegate, in turn, condemned this position of the party leadership and emphasized that issues of safety and protection of women should not be discussed under the chairmanship of someone implicated in such a case.
According to Spanish media, the security commission meeting in Mostoles nevertheless continued despite tensions among participants. During the discussion, issues of crimes against personal freedom and violence against women were considered, adding further gravity to the situation around the city’s mayor.
