Spain’s Supreme Court has sentenced former Transport Minister José Luis Abalos to 24 years in prison and his advisor, Koldo García, to 19 years for their involvement in fraud related to pandemic-era contracts. The convictions stem from a scandal involving alleged inflated prices and irregularities in securing contracts for medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both men were found guilty of offenses including bribery and influence peddling. The ruling intensifies political pressure on current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, already facing scrutiny over the handling of the case. This sentencing further fuels calls for a snap election, with opposition parties demanding accountability. The case has sparked public outrage and contributed to a climate of political instability in Spain.
