José Ignacio Landaluce Resigns from People's Party Amid Serious Allegations

José Ignacio Landaluce, mayor of Algeciras, has resigned from all internal positions within the People's Party (PP) and relinquished his party membership following serious allegations including sexual harassment, embezzlement, and influence peddling. However, Landaluce remains a member of the PP’s Senate parliamentary group for now, according to party sources who stated, “At this moment, yes. For now, there is no change.”

The sexual harassment complaint, lodged by the PSOE, adds to accusations previously raised last year by two women from the local council against Landaluce. His high-profile status is underscored by his presidency of a commission that increases his monthly income by €1,670.90, bringing his total annual earnings to over €110,000.

The allegations have sparked significant political discourse. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the PP, has affirmed that the party immediately activated its internal harassment protocol in response to these accusations. In the political arena, Feijóo has challenged Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez over the handling of harassment cases involving local mayors. In turn, Sánchez questioned the PP’s approach to Landaluce’s situation, highlighting ongoing tensions between the parties.

This controversy emerges amidst broader political happenings, including the recent swearing-in of Teresa Peramato as the new fiscal general del Estado, though this event is unrelated to the Landaluce case. The focus remains firmly on the PP and its management of these allegations.

As the situation develops, Landaluce’s continued role in the Senate and the party’s response will likely attract further scrutiny. Both the legal implications and internal party measures are expected to unfold in the coming weeks, keeping the spotlight on the ethical and political standards within Spanish local and national parties.