Spain's General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) has issued a statement defending judicial independence after the controversial acquittal of footballer Dani Alves in a sexual assault case.

The CGPJ emphasized the importance of presumption of innocence and the role of higher courts in reviewing lower court decisions.

This comes amid criticism from government officials, including Vice President María Jesús Montero, who questioned the ruling.

Meanwhile, internal divisions within the CGPJ have delayed the appointment of key Supreme Court presidencies.

The council's president, Isabel Perelló, removed the vote from the agenda due to a lack of consensus between conservative and progressive members.

Negotiations are expected to continue, with hopes of resolving the impasse by May.