Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Appeal Targets Judge’s Approval for Feijóo to Testify by Video From Congress Office

The challenge contends remote testimony from a political office undermines judicial oversight.

Overview

  • Judge Nuria Ruiz Tobarra granted Alberto Núñez Feijóo permission to testify by videoconference from his official Congress office on 9 January under Article 412 of Spain’s criminal procedure law.
  • The court incorporated a notarial record of WhatsApp messages Feijóo received from Carlos Mazón and asked him to voluntarily provide his outgoing messages to complete the conversation.
  • Private accuser Ximo Esteve appealed the order, seeking mandatory in-person testimony at the Catarroja court or, alternatively, a remote appearance from judicial premises near Feijóo’s residence.
  • Esteve argues that testifying from a political office weakens the court’s ability to control the setting and evaluate spontaneity, noting that other high-level witnesses have appeared in person.
  • Victims’ lawyers previously requested the full chat before Feijóo’s appearance, as the probe into the 29 October 2024 dana addresses a disaster the judge says caused 230 deaths.