In February 2025, a high-profile trial will begin in Badajoz, drawing widespread public attention. David Sánchez, the brother of Spain’s current Prime Minister, will be in the defendant’s seat. He stands accused of obtaining a position in the local administration by bypassing established procedures and using personal connections to advance his career.
Alongside him, former provincial leader Miguel Ángel Gallardo and ten other individuals will also face trial. Investigators allege that in 2017, serious irregularities occurred during the hiring process for the provincial administration. Specifically, the job opening was created and filled without a transparent selection process, and the working conditions were tailored to suit the new employee’s personal preferences.
The case file contains thousands of emails seized during the investigation. According to the prosecution, these messages serve as crucial evidence that the hiring process was far from standard practice. The defense, meanwhile, insists these materials should be excluded from the trial, arguing that the rights of the accused were violated in obtaining them.
The charges include administrative misconduct and abuse of influence for personal gain. Investigators allege that after being appointed, David Sanchez secured special working conditions for himself and facilitated the employment of an acquaintance who previously worked at the Prime Minister’s residence. Prosecutors are seeking real prison terms for the accused.
The trial promises to become one of the most talked-about cases in Spain in 2025. Public interest is fueled not only by the status of the main defendant but also by the involvement of high-ranking officials and concerns over transparency in government operations.
