Spain is witnessing another political controversy that could affect perceptions of transparency in public contracts. At the center of attention is Susana Sumelzo, Secretary for Ibero-American and Caribbean Affairs. Her name surfaced in connection with the family company Sumelzo SA, which has secured significant government contracts in recent years. This situation has triggered an intense reaction in the Senate and sparked new debates on corruption and political pressure.
Sumelzo found herself in a difficult position after senators from the Vox and UPN parties accused her of possible involvement with Sumelzo SA. The company, connected to her family, signed contracts worth around 30 million euros during the tenure of Pedro Sánchez. Although Sumelzo was indeed an authorized representative for the company for several months, she categorically denied any personal interest or involvement in its business.
Sharp questions in the Senate
During Senate hearings, Sumelzo faced tough questions and accusations. Senators asserted that the growth in Sumelzo SA’s contracts coincided with the current government’s rise to power. In response, Sumelzo called the situation a ‘political persecution campaign’ and emphasized that she has no connection to the management of the company or its contracts. She also stated that she has never used her connections to lobby for her family’s interests.
Particular attention was drawn to information about the company Servinabar, which is mentioned in an investigation over suspected manipulation of government contracts. According to senators, Servinabar received payments from entities linked to the Sumelso family. However, Sumelso herself has categorically denied any involvement in these operations, stressing that she was not aware of such transactions and did not participate in them.
Response to the allegations
The Senate hearings took place in a tense atmosphere. Sumelso did not hide her irritation as she answered questions from opposition representatives. She accused the senators of trying to turn the session into an ‘interrogation’ and stated that she had no information about the activities of any companies associated with her family. According to her, such accusations undermine trust in democratic institutions and are used to create false perceptions in society.
A senator from Vox accused Sumelso of participating in a ‘grand corruption scheme,’ citing the sharp increase in the family company’s income after the change in power. In response, Sumelso called these assertions ‘insinuations’ and a ‘platform for spreading rumors’ that, in her view, damage the entire country’s political system.
Investigation details
During the hearings, Sumelso was also summoned to clarify the role of her family company as a creditor in the Forestalia project, which is mentioned in another high-profile case involving SEPI. She emphasized that she does not have specific information to answer questions on this matter and pointed out that her task is to respond to questions, not to comment on media reports or rumors.
Sumelso also denied any acquaintance with Leire Díez, who is dubbed the ‘gray eminence’ of the PSOE, and clarified that her relationship with Santos Cerdán is strictly professional and political. She stressed that she has no information regarding his possible business ties.
In recent years, Spain has seen several high-profile scandals involving government contracts and corruption allegations. Such investigations often lead to major political consequences, including resignations and reviews of contracting procedures. Notable examples include the case of medical supplies procurement during the pandemic and probes into large infrastructure projects. Each new incident sparks public debate about transparency and government accountability, as well as tighter oversight of public spending.
