Leaked Messages Link PSOE Officials to Public Works Corruption Probe
UCO investigation reveals internal tensions over alleged kickbacks and public contract manipulation.
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1Internal PSOE Tensions Exposed
Leaked messages from April 2021 reveal a heated exchange between Santos Cerdán and Koldo García regarding Cristian Corvillo. Cerdán expressed frustration that Corvillo, the former chauffeur to the Prime Minister, was spreading rumors about a conflict between him and José Luis Ábalos, potentially jeopardizing political interests in the Andalusia region.
2The Role of Cristian Corvillo
Corvillo, recently detained in a Guardia Civil operation, appears as a central figure in the investigation into public works contract manipulation. Investigators highlight his close ties to Koldo García and his later alignment with businessman Aldama, suggesting he played a significant, albeit undefined, role in the alleged illicit activities surrounding government contracts.
3Allegations of Kickbacks
The UCO report submitted to the Audiencia Nacional suggests these communications may indicate a scheme to distribute kickbacks from public works adjudications. The investigation specifically mentions companies like Murias and LIC, pointing toward a broader network of influence peddling and embezzlement involving high-level officials within the Ministry of Transport at the time.
4Questioning Financial Integrity
In the same report, Cerdán is documented questioning Koldo García about his personal wealth and potential financial gains from businessmen in Aragon. García denied receiving illicit payments, yet the UCO noted that by early 2021, García and LIC owner José Ruz began using secure, disposable phone lines to communicate, signaling potential efforts to conceal interactions.
5Ministerial Dismissals and Shifts
The mounting pressure regarding these integrity concerns culminated in July 2021. José Luis Ábalos was removed as Minister of Transport, with Koldo García subsequently leaving his post. Santos Cerdán replaced Ábalos as the PSOE Organization Secretary, while Pedro Saura was also removed from the ministry, marking a significant structural overhaul within the government.
6Aldama’s Testimony and Rivalry
Businessman Aldama testified to the Supreme Court regarding a rivalry with Cerdán over the control of kickbacks. Aldama claimed Cerdán sought to protect his influence over northern Spanish contracts, often referred to as the Basque quota, viewing Aldama’s own network as a direct threat to his established system of collecting illegal commissions.
7Cash Deliveries to Ferraz
The investigation also touches upon claims by businesswoman Carmen Pano, who alleged she delivered 90,000 euros in cash to the PSOE headquarters at Ferraz. She stated these funds originated from Claudio Rivas, who sought a government-granted license in the hydrocarbons sector, further linking the accused parties to potential bribery and illegal party financing.
8Judicial Investigation Scope
Magistrate Ismael Moreno is currently overseeing the case, which encompasses charges of criminal organization, bribery, and influence peddling. The 500-page report by the Guardia Civil serves as a foundational document for the ongoing legal proceedings, which continue to examine the deep-seated connections between political advisors, private contractors, and the alleged misuse of public funds.