Spanish Judge Peinado restricts Begoña Gómez's passport amid lobbying allegations

A Spanish judge, Juan Antonio Peinado, has issued a ruling that could keep the passport of Begoña Gómez—daughter of former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero—under judicial control. The decision would require Gómez to appear before the court every fifteen days and could lead to an oral trial.

The move is linked to accusations that Gómez and her family have amassed a considerable fortune through lobbying, advisory work and alleged money‑laundering schemes tied to the Venezuelan government. The judge’s order reflects broader concerns about the use of political influence and financial opacity within Spain’s former leadership circles.