Spain's former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is facing a tax fraud inquiry, judicial sources confirmed on Wednesday. The investigation, led by a court in Madrid, focuses on alleged irregularities in his tax declarations between 2014 and 2016.
Details of the Investigation
The probe was opened after a complaint from the Spanish Tax Agency, which identified discrepancies in Zapatero's income and assets. Sources familiar with the case said the former premier may have failed to declare income from speaking engagements and book royalties.
Zapatero, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2011, has not yet been formally charged. His lawyer stated that all tax obligations have been met and that the investigation is based on an administrative error.
Political Reactions
The news has sparked reactions across the political spectrum. The opposition People's Party called for a full explanation, while Zapatero's Socialist Party expressed confidence in his innocence. Political analysts note that the case could affect the party's image ahead of upcoming regional elections.
This is not the first time a former Spanish leader has faced tax allegations. In recent years, several high-profile politicians have been investigated for financial misconduct.
The court has not set a deadline for the investigation. Zapatero is expected to testify in the coming weeks.
