Ábalos is left without the Congress compensation
Former Spanish deputy José Luis Ábalos has been denied compensation after his suspension as a congressman, as he was already suspended at the time of his resignation.
José Luis Ábalos, a former deputy in Spain, has been denied a compensation claim of over €100,000 by the Congress following his suspension and subsequent imprisonment. The legal team of the Congress determined that the request for compensation was not valid because Ábalos was already suspended at the time he resigned from his post. Furthermore, it has been noted that no previous suspended members of the Congress have received compensation in similar situations, establishing a precedent against such claims.
The Congress's rationale for rejecting Ábalos's request highlights a broader interpretation of the rights and benefits associated with deputy status. The Chamber's authorities argue that the suspension encompasses all rights and privileges, meaning there cannot be a recovery of benefits that were already forfeited due to the suspension. This decision underscores the strict adherence to rules governing compensation and entitlements for lawmakers who face disciplinary actions.
Ábalos's case raises questions regarding the treatment of suspended politicians and the procedures in place for addressing compensation claims within the parliamentary framework. His potential entitlement to compensation after seven terms in the Congress ignites discussions about fairness and the implications for other suspended officials. This precedent could influence how future cases of suspended deputies are handled, particularly for those who may find themselves in similar circumstances as Ábalos.