Spanish Court Sets April Trial Date for Former Minister, Aide in Mask Procurement Case
Madrid, Spain – A trial is set to begin April 7th in Spain’s Supreme Court concerning alleged corruption related to a multi-million euro contract for the procurement of face masks during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The case centers on José Luis Ábalos, a former minister, and his former advisor, Koldo García.
The defense team for Koldo García has filed a motion with the Supreme Court seeking to annul the proceedings, arguing that fundamental rights have been violated. According to Spanish news outlet elDiario.es, the motion claims the court’s previous rulings infringed upon García’s right to legal defense, the right to a fair trial, and the ability to present evidence.
Specifically, the defense argues that the case should have been handled by the National Court, a specialized court dealing with complex financial crimes, and that opportunities to raise questions before the European Court of Justice were improperly denied. They also cite concerns over the handling of evidence and alleged leaks to the media, claiming the process has been compromised.
The case, often referred to as the “Koldo case” or “Ábalos case,” revolves around accusations that commissions were received in exchange for awarding contracts for mask acquisition to companies linked to García. The contracts were issued by public entities under the Ministry of Transport.
The defense, led by lawyer Leticia de la Hoz, detailed their concerns in a 56-page document, highlighting a recent report from the Guardia Civil’s Central Operative Unit (UCO) that is part of a parallel investigation in the National Court. The defense team believes this report demonstrates ongoing investigation into García’s involvement, potentially undermining the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction.
Further complicating matters, the defense claims they have been denied access to seized devices from a February 2024 raid on García’s home, hindering their ability to prepare for the trial. They also allege that personal communications of García have been leaked to the press, creating a biased environment.
The defense previously attempted to recuse five judges from the tribunal, citing potential conflicts of interest, but those motions were dismissed.
The trial promises to be a high-profile event in Spain, raising questions about transparency and accountability in government contracting during a public health crisis. The outcome could have significant political ramifications, given Ábalos’s prominent position within the ruling party at the time of the alleged offenses.