Begoña Gómez, wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has declined to testify before a judge investigating her for alleged influence peddling and business corruption.

The decision came during her second court appearance, where she exercised her right to remain silent.

Government ministers, including Justice Minister Félix Bolaños, have strongly criticized the investigation, calling it a 'cruel and inhuman political persecution' against Sánchez and his family.

Meanwhile, opposition parties argue that Gómez's silence only fuels suspicions.

The case has intensified political tensions in Spain, with the government accusing right-wing parties of abandoning legitimate opposition in favor of smear tactics.