In her first interview since being implicated in a corruption investigation, Isabel Pardo de Vera, the former Secretary of State for Transport, reflects on her career and the pervasive influence of her predecessor, José Luis Ábalos. Pardo de Vera rose through the ranks from working on construction projects in Galicia to becoming the president of Adif and later the Secretary of State for Transport. Her remarkable ascent was marred by her recent indictment in a corruption case linked to alleged misconduct during Ábalos' tenure.

Pardo de Vera has been accused of facilitating the hiring of Ábalos' ex-partner in a public company and potentially manipulating contract awards. She recounted an experience where she refused a bribe from a contractor, showcasing her commitment to integrity in a turbulent political landscape. Despite her achievements, her career trajectory has been significantly altered by the ongoing investigation, which casts a shadow over the Transport Ministry during the years she was in a prominent position.

The case highlights issues of corruption and accountability in Spanish politics, particularly in sectors prone to malfeasance like infrastructure and transport. As the investigation progresses, the implications for the former Secretary of State and the broader government raise questions about governance and oversight in critical public sectors, showcasing the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in a complex political environment.