José Luis Ábalos

José Luis Ábalos is a former Spanish Minister of Transport and Organization Secretary of the PSOE party. He is currently on trial at the Supreme Court in the "Caso Koldo" (Koldo Case), which investigates alleged corruption in the procurement of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent court proceedings have featured testimonies from individuals connected to the case, including Ábalos's former advisor Koldo García and businessman Víctor de Aldama. Defenses have attempted to portray Ábalos and García as instrumental in securing early mask supplies for Spain. However, testimonies also suggest a business offer of "eight million or nothing" for masks and allegations of a businessman, Claudio Rivas, potentially bribing Ábalos with a property. The trial is ongoing, with various witnesses, including Koldo's ex-partner, providing testimony regarding financial dealings and party expense policies. The case continues to be a significant focus in Spanish political and judicial news.