A new political and legal scandal is brewing in Madrid: Santos Cerdán, former organization secretary of one of the country’s largest parties, has become the focus of a high-profile investigation. Judge Lidia María Paloma Montaño of the capital’s 24th Investigative Court has summoned him to appear on February 5. The reason is suspicion of perjury during Senate hearings related to the Koldo case. This is far from a mere formality: we’re talking about a potential crime that could have serious consequences for Spain’s entire political scene.
Cerdán is accused of allegedly providing false information to the Senate committee about his contacts with Koldo García, former advisor to ex-minister José Luis Ábalos. According to prosecutors, Cerdán claimed he had only spoken to García a couple of times over two years, knew nothing about his role as an intermediary in mask procurement, and had no business dealings with him. However, materials submitted to the court reportedly suggest otherwise.
Details of the accusation
The case was initiated by Hazte Oír, an organization that filed a complaint against Cerdán back in October last year. As evidence, they presented a report from the Guardia Civil, which is also included in documents before the Supreme Court. Investigators believe this report contradicts Cerdán’s statements and points to his possible involvement in corruption schemes linked to the awarding of government contracts for medical supplies during the pandemic.
It is worth noting that Serdán is already implicated in other investigations, in which he is suspected of receiving illegal payments for lobbying the interests of certain companies. In one of these cases, he even spent several months in pre-trial detention. Now, he will have to explain his actions and statements before a Madrid court.
Court response
Judge Montaño, in admitting the complaint for consideration, noted that at this stage there is sufficient reason to continue the investigation. According to her, dismissing the case prematurely would be hasty. The case is now under review in the provincial court, which must decide whether the proceedings will go forward. There is no final decision yet, but the very fact that Serdán has been summoned for questioning underscores the seriousness of the investigation.
Legal circles remain divided: some believe the case could set a precedent for tackling falsehoods at the highest levels, while others see political motivations and an attempt to pressure the opposition. Either way, the process is attracting attention not only in Madrid but across the entire country.
Political context
The Koldo case has long become a symbol of the fight against corruption in Spanish politics. It involves well-known figures, and the investigation affects the interests of several influential groups. Despite stepping down as the party’s organization secretary, Serdán remains a prominent figure in political circles. His testimony in the Senate was seen as crucial to understanding how government contracts were allocated at the height of the pandemic.
The perjury charges are more than a formality. If Serdán is found guilty, it could deal a blow not only to his reputation but also to the entire political system. However, he maintains his innocence and claims to be the target of a political campaign.
A view from the outside
The situation surrounding Serdán is a vivid example of how court proceedings can shape a country’s political life. In Spain, where trust in government institutions is already fragile, such cases spark intense emotions and debate. Some demand tough measures and transparency, while others fear the fight against corruption is being used as a tool for settling scores.
In any case, Serdán’s upcoming interrogation promises to be one of the most talked-about events of the year’s start. Questions have piled up for him not only from investigators but also from the public. And it seems the answers will resonate far beyond a single courtroom.
