Spain’s conservative opposition, the People’s Party (PP), is grappling with a major corruption scandal following accusations against former finance minister Cristóbal Montoro. The allegations, which involve multimillion-euro payments from energy companies in exchange for favorable tax policies, threaten to reshape the country’s political landscape.
Montoro Linked to Lobbying Network
At the center of the controversy is Equipo Económico, a consultancy founded by Montoro. According to Spanish police and documents cited by national broadcaster RTVE, the firm allegedly served as an intermediary for major energy companies—particularly in the gas sector—to influence fiscal legislation during the administration of former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy (PP).
The investigation stems from a 2013 email uncovered during a 2017 police raid. In the message, a senior executive at Messer Ibérica gas company wrote: “The most direct route, as always, is to pay this economic team, which has direct contact with the Minister of Finance, Cristóbal Montoro.”
Judge Rubén Rus, leading the case, stated the consultancy “received large commissions” in exchange for shaping tax laws and other legislation. Prosecutors allege that some of the reforms were adopted quickly and without transparency, indicating undue influence on Spain’s legislative and executive branches.
Alleged Misuse of Confidential Tax Data
Beyond legislative manipulation, the investigation also accuses Montoro of accessing confidential tax information of prominent individuals and political rivals without authorization. Notable figures allegedly targeted include tennis champion Rafael Nadal, art collector Carmen Thyssen, and former Madrid regional president Esperanza Aguirre.
Resignation and Denial
Montoro tendered his resignation from the People’s Party on July 17, insisting that there is “no proof” behind the accusations. However, the charges under consideration are serious, ranging from bribery and fraud to money laundering, document falsification, and possible involvement in a criminal organization.
RTVE reports that evidence includes emails and legislative drafts allegedly authored by industry groups like AFGIM with support from Montoro’s office.
Political Fallout
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, current leader of the PP, emphasized the need for transparency and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. “What needs to be investigated must be investigated,” he said, reiterating the party’s commitment to fighting corruption “no matter who is involved.”
Political analyst Pablo Simón of Universidad Carlos III commented that the scandal significantly undermines the credibility of the PP. While it may temporarily relieve pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist government—also accused of past corruption—Simón warned it reinforces a broader public sentiment that both major parties are deeply compromised.
As Spain awaits further developments in the judicial process, public discontent with institutional corruption appears to be intensifying. With trust in mainstream parties waning, the political center may face increasing pressure from populist and fringe movements in the next electoral cycle.
