A Spanish judge has changed the status of businessman Juan Carlos Barrabés from witness to suspect in the ongoing investigation of Begoña Gómez, wife of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

Barrabés, who previously testified about meetings with Sánchez and Gómez at the official residence, is now set to be questioned as a suspect on July 29. Gómez, facing allegations of influence peddling and business corruption, exercised her right to remain silent during her court appearance.

The case has sparked political controversy, with opposition parties demanding explanations from Sánchez, while his supporters argue the investigation is baseless and politically motivated.