Móstoles Mayor Denies Sexual and Labor Harassment Allegations

Manuel Bautista, the mayor of Móstoles, has strongly denied allegations of sexual and labor harassment made against him by a former councilor of his party. These accusations surfaced in 2024 but were not supported by the People's Party (PP) of Madrid. Bautista explained that the former councilor, who desired the role of first deputy mayor, initially only alleged labor discrimination without mentioning sexual harassment. During a meeting, she explicitly denied any claims of sexual abuse when asked. The conflict began after the 2023 municipal elections when the former councilor was offered the position of Councilor for New Technologies but declined due to the requirement of full-time commitment. Bautista emphasized that no judicial case has been filed against him, and the former councilor did not pursue internal party mechanisms or legal action, leaving him unclear about the specific accusations he must address. He asserted that the complaints appear to be politically motivated, stemming from the former councilor's dissatisfaction over her career prospects.

This controversy remains unresolved in a judicial context, with Bautista maintaining his position and calling for the issues to be clarified legally should they arise. The situation continues to draw attention amid ongoing political activity in the region, though the mayor insists his focus remains on governance rather than scandal.