Thousands march in Madrid demanding Spanish PM quit over graft allegations | Protests News
Thousands March in Madrid Demanding Prime Minister Sanchez’s Resignation Amid Corruption Scandals
Published May 23, 2026
MADRID — Thousands took to the streets of Madrid on Saturday, calling for the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez following a series of corruption scandals involving his inner circle.
Demonstrators, many waving Spain’s red and yellow flags and holding signs proclaiming “Enough!”, marched through the capital behind a large banner reading: “Corruption has a price. No more impunity. Resignation and elections now.”
The protest was organized by Sociedad Civil Espanola, a coalition of over 150 civic associations, and received support from the conservative Popular Party (PP) and the far-right Vox party. Organizers estimated that around 120,000 people participated, while the central government delegate estimated attendance at approximately 40,000. The march concluded at Plaza Moncloa, near Sanchez’s official residence.
As the march came to an end, a small group of participants attempted to approach the residence but were met with a response from riot police, resulting in a largely peaceful protest overall, as reported by Spanish television. Three individuals were arrested, and seven police officers sustained minor injuries.
Far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal criticized Sanchez’s administration, stating, “There is no one left in Pedro Sanchez’s circle who has not been accused of very serious crimes. Spain is being held hostage by a corrupt mafia.”
Sanchez, who assumed office in 2018 after ousting the corruption-embroiled PP government through a vote of no confidence, has pledged to remain in power despite the growing corruption allegations involving his entourage. His brother, David, is set to stand trial for influence peddling, while his wife, Begona Gomez, is currently under investigation in a separate corruption case. Sanchez briefly considered resigning in April 2024 after the case was initiated, but Gomez has consistently denied any wrongdoing. A Spanish prosecutor recently requested the closure of the case against her, which was brought forward by far-right groups.
Sanchez has maintained that the allegations against his family are politically motivated. Additionally, his former right-hand man, ex-Transport Minister Jose Luis Abalos, is awaiting a ruling in his own corruption trial, which concluded earlier this month.
In a related development, former Socialist Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, an ally of Sanchez, was placed under formal investigation for influence peddling and other offenses, further intensifying scrutiny on the government. Zapatero has denied any misconduct.
