The Prosecutor’s Office Denies Prison Request for 63-Year-Old Rodrigo Rato

The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office has requested 63 years in prison for Rodrigo Rato, a former managing director of the IMF and vice president of the Government with José María Aznar. This request was made during the oral hearing in the Madrid Court against Rato for the alleged illicit origin of his fortune. In addition to prison time, the public ministry has asked for a fine of 42 million euros. The prosecution attributes 11 tax crimes, money laundering, and corruption between individuals to the former politician.

Anticorruption emphasizes that Rato, while portraying a lawful way of life publicly, engaged in underhanded management of companies to evade taxes both in Spain and abroad. The prosecution argues that Rato intentionally sought to avoid paying taxes using a network of interrelated companies and bank accounts in various countries. Additionally, the prosecution claims that Rato charged illegal commissions during his time as president of Caja Madrid and Bankia.

In addition to Rato, the Anticorruption Prosecutor’s Office accuses 12 other individuals and three legal entities in the case. The trial, which began in December, is in its final phase. After months of testimony and expert examinations, the accused began testifying in April. The trial will resume on May 6, with final reports expected from both sides.

The prosecution not only focuses on Rato but also accuses individuals in his close circle, including his former tax advisor, secretary, and trusted associate. The prosecution requests prison sentences for these individuals for tax crimes, money laundering, and corruption in business. The trial is set to continue with final reports and the opportunity for the accused to give their last words before a verdict is reached.