Spanish judge orders trial of 40 officials over graft

‘A Spanish judge has ordered the trial of 40 individuals, including former mayors and businessmen affiliated to the ruling Popular Party (PP), on charges of involvement in a kickback scheme and alleged corruption crimes.

On Thursday, Spanish High Court Judge Pablo Ruz ordered three former PP treasurers, namely Luis Barcenas, Alvaro Lapuerta and Angel Sanchis, as well as former Health Minister Ana Mato to stand trial.

Mato stepped down last November, saying at the time that she had no knowledge of the kickback scheme.’

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