CEOE chief: "Brutal attack" on judges, corruption cases "incredible"

The head of Spain's main business association, CEOE, sharply criticized the government on Wednesday over corruption investigations surrounding the administration. Antonio Garamendi told the CEOE General Assembly in Madrid that there is a "brutal attack" on judges. He expressed full support for judges, the Civil Guard, and national police. "It is lamentable," Garamendi said. "Let us lift the carpets, because the corruption cases are incredible." He warned that "outside" observers are watching Spain, adding: "This is not good for us" or for businesses. Garamendi also criticized "institutional instability," calling it "the worst possible context for a good economy and employment." He noted the government struggles to pass laws in Parliament and has not approved a national budget in three years. When asked if he was calling for early elections, Garamendi avoided a direct answer. He said there are several "formulas" available to Parliament and the government. "They are there, take them," he stated. The business leader also blamed Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz for blocking a wage agreement. He accused her department of "normative asphyxiation," "continuous abuse" of regulations, and "distortion" of social dialogue. Garamendi said legal "insecurity" from the ministry makes it "very difficult" to negotiate a new collective bargaining deal with unions this year. Unions CCOO and UGT have been urging talks for months, but Garamendi rejected claims of a "blockade," insisting the ministry's interference is the problem.