Ángela Murillo: A Legacy of Courage and Controversy in Spanish Justice
Ángela Murillo, a pioneering figure in Spanish law and the first woman to serve in the Penal Chamber of the National Court in 1993, has died at the age of 74. Her 31 years at the National Court and over 40 years in the judiciary, were marked by a relentless pursuit of justice, particularly in the fight against ETA.
From ETA to Financial Crime: A Career Defined by High-Profile Cases
Murillo’s career spanned some of Spain’s most significant legal battles. She presided over the ‘Nécora’ case involving drug trafficking, investigations into ‘black cards’ and the Bankia bailout, and trials related to Al Qaeda cells operating in Spain. Her involvement in the prosecution of Arnaldo Otegi, a leader of EH Bildu, and former police commissioner José Villarejo, further cemented her place in Spanish legal history.
A Disarming Style and Unintended Consequences
Known for her spontaneous and often disarming personality, Murillo’s approach to justice wasn’t without controversy. A defining moment came during Otegi’s trial when, responding to a request from Otegi’s lawyer for him to be allowed water during a hunger strike, she famously quipped, “Well, as far as I’m concerned, he can drink wine.”
This seemingly casual remark led to a condemnation from the European Court of Human Rights, which ruled that Spain had not guaranteed a fair trial. Despite the backlash, Murillo maintained a good relationship with Otegi, even receiving a signed copy of a book about Nelson Mandela from him, a gift she treasured.
The EKIN Trial and Personal Sacrifice
Murillo’s dedication to her work was exemplified during the lengthy EKIN trial (officially known as 18/98), aimed at dismantling ETA’s political, financial, and media apparatus. The trial, which began in 2005 and concluded in 2007, resulted in the conviction of 47 out of 56 defendants. Yet, it came at a significant personal cost, as her partner suffered a serious illness and subsequently passed away during the proceedings. Despite this hardship, she continued to preside over the trial.
Navigating the Shift to Economic Crime
Following the decline of ETA, the National Court increasingly focused on cases of corruption. Murillo adapted to this shift, continuing to preside over high-profile economic crime trials. She retired in September 2024, after 44 years in the judicial system, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment and a unique approach to justice.
A Pioneer for Women in the Judiciary
Murillo’s appointment to the Penal Chamber of the National Court in 1993 was a landmark moment for women in the Spanish judiciary. She paved the way for future generations of female judges and demonstrated that women could excel in even the most challenging legal environments.
Did you know? Murillo reportedly didn’t regret retiring, feeling a sense of satisfaction from having always followed her own convictions.
FAQ
Q: What was Ángela Murillo known for?
A: She was known for her pioneering role as the first woman in the Penal Chamber of the National Court, her relentless pursuit of justice against ETA, and her sometimes controversial, yet direct, style.
Q: What was the ‘Bateragune’ case?
A: It was a case related to the attempt to reconstruct the outlawed Batasuna political organization, and involved Arnaldo Otegi. Murillo’s comment during the trial led to a ruling against Spain by the European Court of Human Rights.
Q: What was the EKIN trial?
A: It was a major trial aimed at dismantling ETA’s support network, lasting from 2005 to 2007 and resulting in numerous convictions.
Pro Tip: Understanding the historical context of ETA is crucial to appreciating the significance of Murillo’s work and the challenges she faced.
Explore more articles on Spanish legal history and the fight against terrorism to gain a deeper understanding of the context surrounding Ángela Murillo’s remarkable career.
