The Secretary General of the PSdeG-PSOE, Xosé Ramón Gómez Besteiro, has moved to suspend the mayor of Bardabás (Ourense) following an internal complaint alleging workplace harassment. The complaint, recently filed within the party, claims the mayor retaliated against a member who had previously reported sexual harassment by a council member, who resigned in the summer of 2024.
Internal Accusations and Party Response
According to a report by La Voz de Galicia, the internal complaint details a second instance of harassment – this time of a laboral nature – directly attributed to the mayor, Xosé Carlos Valcárcel. Valcárcel was among those who signed manifestos criticizing the party leadership under Besteiro for its handling of previous sexual harassment scandals.
Besteiro addressed the situation in an urgent press conference, announcing the PSOE will request Valcárcel step down from his positions, including his role as a provincial deputy. Failure to comply will result in suspension from party membership. Besteiro defended his handling of harassment cases, stating he does not feel undermined by internal criticism.
When directly asked about the possibility of his own resignation, Besteiro responded with a firm, “Absolutely not.”
Growing Internal Pressure
This development comes amid increasing internal pressure within the PSdeG-PSOE regarding its handling of sexual harassment allegations. Reports indicate that female mayors, senior officials, and party members are demanding firmer action and greater transparency in addressing such cases.
The situation is further complicated by an upcoming broadcast on the television program ‘Código 10’, which previously aired a report on a sexual harassment case that led to the resignation of José Tomé as president of the Lugo Provincial Council. The program reportedly intends to present evidence suggesting that those close to Besteiro ignored victims and attempted to cover up the scandal.
In response, the PSOE headquarters in Madrid has appointed a management team to take control of the party in Lugo, led by Luis Ángel Lago Lage, described as a close confidant of Besteiro.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the suspension of the mayor of Bardabás?
The suspension was prompted by an internal complaint alleging he engaged in workplace harassment against a party member who had previously reported sexual harassment by a council member.
What is Besteiro’s position regarding his own resignation?
Besteiro has stated definitively that he has no intention of resigning.
What action is the PSOE taking in Lugo following the previous harassment case?
The PSOE has appointed a management team, led by Luis Ángel Lago Lage, to take control of the party in Lugo.
How will these ongoing internal conflicts shape the future direction of the PSdeG-PSOE?
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