Koldo García Denies Corruption Allegations in Supreme Court
On December 17, 2024, Koldo García, former advisor to ex-Minister of Transport José Luis Ábalos, appeared before the Supreme Court of Spain to respond to serious allegations of corruption. The accusations, stemming from the so-called "Koldo Case," involve claims of bribery, money laundering, and influence peddling related to emergency contracts for medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. García firmly denied all allegations, asserting that he neither received nor witnessed any illicit payments.
During a two-and-a-half-hour interrogation by Judge Leopoldo Puente, García refuted claims made by businessman Víctor de Aldama, who alleged that García was a key figure in a corrupt network that profited from the sale of masks and other medical supplies valued at over €54 million. García insisted that he lacked the authority to influence contract awards and had no knowledge of any wrongdoing by Ábalos or the Socialist Party (PSOE). He described himself as a mere advisor with no capacity to sway public tenders, attributing such responsibilities to ministry technicians.
Background of the Koldo Case
The Koldo Case has drawn significant attention, involving multiple high-profile figures, including former Minister Ábalos, who served from 2018 to 2021. The investigation, which was initially led by the National Court, was taken over by the Supreme Court due to Ábalos' parliamentary immunity. The former minister is accused of participating in a criminal organization and profiting from the awarding of contracts, with allegations suggesting he directed García to facilitate corrupt dealings.
García's testimony followed Aldama's earlier statements, where he claimed to have made substantial cash payments to both García and Ábalos. However, both men have categorically denied these claims. García emphasized his innocence, stating in a pre-testimony interview, "In my life, I have done many things, but none with Mr. Ábalos."
Legal Consequences and Future Implications
Following his testimony, García left the Supreme Court under precautionary measures that include the withdrawal of his passport and a requirement to report to the court bi-weekly. The court's decision reflects the serious nature of the allegations against him and Aldama, who is also facing similar restrictions.
As the investigation continues, the implications for both García and Ábalos could be significant, potentially leading to further legal actions and revelations about the inner workings of the Ministry of Transport during their tenure. The case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption in public administration, particularly in the context of emergency procurement during the pandemic.
