The Supreme Court of Spain is set to hold a closed-door hearing next Tuesday regarding the appeal of Santos Cerdán, the former Secretary of Organisation of the PSOE party. Cerdán is appealing against a remand decision made by the judge overseeing the ‘Koldo case’, where he faces serious allegations including organised crime, influence peddling, and bribery connected to a scheme involving kickbacks for public works contracts.

Cerdán’s defence contends there are insufficient grounds for his detention, arguing that he has become a victim of a politically motivated witch hunt. They have accused the presiding judge of adopting an inquisitorial approach and suggest the evidence presented, including recordings from a former ministerial advisor, could have been compromised.

In contrast, the presiding judge, Leopoldo Puente, has indicated that there is ample evidence suggesting Cerdán’s involvement in a criminal organisation that sought to gain illicit financial rewards through biased public contract awards. The judge expressed concerns that Cerdán, alongside other key figures, could potentially destroy evidence if released.

The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office has voiced their opposition to Cerdán’s appeal, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations he faces and asserting the existence of substantial evidence against him. They maintain that the risk of him manipulating evidence and influencing witnesses remains significant, urging the court to reject his request for release.