David Sánchez appeals nine-year disqualification, claims investigation was politically motivated

David Sánchez, a musician and sibling of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has appealed the nine-year disqualification handed down by the Audiencia Provincial of Badajoz. His attorney, Emilio Cortés, filed the appeal before the Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Extremadura, arguing that the investigation infringed fundamental rights and the presumption of innocence. The case originated from a complaint by the Manos Limpias union, which the defense describes as a “prospective investigation” motivated by Sánchez’s family ties to the head of the PSOE.

The court had previously ruled that a high-level role created by the Diputación de Badajoz was spurious and specifically aimed at David Sánchez. The appeal also challenges the judge’s order for the Civil Guard’s Central Operational Unit to examine the Diputación’s email archives, deeming the action unconstitutional and a breach of privacy. Additionally, the judgment also sentenced former regional socialist leader Miguel Ángel Gallardo to an 18-year ban.