Eduard Rivas, chief of staff to President of the Generalitat Salvador Illa, is under judicial investigation for alleged financial irregularities. The probe concerns a foundation in Esparreguera, Barcelona, which supports people with disabilities and those at risk of exclusion.
Catalan police, the Mossos d'Esquadra, seized Mr Rivas's mobile phone several months ago. Its contents are currently being analysed as part of the ongoing inquiry. He has since appointed a defence lawyer. He also formally joined the legal proceedings as an investigated party.
Sources from the Catalan government expressed "full confidence" in Mr Rivas following the news, according to Esparreguera municipality Wikipedia. They stated, "He is the first to want this investigation clarified as soon as possible, hence his total willingness to cooperate in everything necessary."
Investigation Details Emerge
'El Periódico' first reported the investigation. It detailed that Catalan police obtained Mr Rivas's phone in January with a judicial order. Weeks later, he formally became an investigated party, gaining access to the procedural details.
The investigation specifically targets alleged irregularities at the Fundación para la Inclusión Laboral (FIL). This foundation, based in Esparreguera, plays a crucial role in the social and labour integration of vulnerable individuals. Authorities are examining whether public contract funds intended for the foundation were improperly used. They are investigating if these funds covered private expenses for individuals linked to the organisation.
Broader Implications
Mr Rivas served as Mayor of Esparreguera before his current high-profile role. Esparreguera is a town of approximately 22,000 residents in the Baix Llobregat comarca. His position as chief of staff to the President of the Generalitat makes this investigation particularly sensitive for the Catalan government.
The judicial process continues as authorities await the full analysis of the seized phone data. Mr Rivas maintains his full cooperation with the investigation, seeking a swift resolution to the allegations.
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Originally published by ABC Cataluña. Read original article.
