Cádiz former mayor faces 18-year disqualification request

The Provincial Prosecutor's Office has requested an 18-year disqualification from public office and a fine of 10,800 euros for former Cádiz Mayor José María González, known as ‘Kichi’, and four other former government members. The charges involve alleged crimes of prevarication and the revelation of secrets related to the ‘ghost advisor’ case.

The investigation focuses on the actions of Fernando García Acuña, an advisor linked to the ‘Por Cádiz Sí Se Puede’ group between April 2018 and April 2019. Prosecutors allege that although he was not a public official or permanent staff, he had access to procurement files and provided instructions to civil servants.

José María González has defended his administration, stating that the advisor was hired to help councilors incorporate social clauses into procurement procedures following new legislation. He denied any economic harm to the municipal treasury and characterized the legal action as a form of persecution.

Cádiz Mayor Bruno García has called for explanations regarding why an external individual was permitted to handle public procurement matters, which should be the responsibility of public officials. García noted that the complaint originated from a left-wing union (CCOO) and urged the current opposition to address the gravity of the situation.