Óscar Puente confronts the Judiciary after criticism of the Government for "questioning independence": "They tarnish the good name with their abuses"

The General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) this Tuesday launched a strong message in defense of judicial independence against criticisms made by various State institutions regarding ongoing judicial procedures that are affecting the PSOE. In an institutional statement, the governing body of judges expressed its "concern" about statements made by "qualified officials of high State institutions" who, in its opinion, question "the independence, responsibility, and submission to the law of certain judicial actions".

In this context, the Minister of Transport, Óscar Puente, spoke through his social networks defending that "the Judiciary is subject to criticism, like the rest of the powers".

"Whoever undermines institutions is he who, being part of them, uses them for purposes other than those provided for by the Constitution and the Law. Among those purposes is not to overthrow governments," he continued in his X publication.

Along these lines, he reiterated that "criticizing specific actions does not mean questioning the Institution" and defended the majority of "serious professionals" against "those who tarnish the good name of Justice with their abuses".

1.- El Poder Judicial está sometido a la crítica, como el resto de poderes.
2.- Quien socava las instituciones es quien formando parte de ellas las utiliza para fines distintos a los que prevé la Constitución y la Ley. Entre esos fines no está derribar gobiernos.
3.- Criticar… https://t.co/Z6dGBX7Ek1

— Óscar Puente (@oscar_puente_) June 3, 2026

The CGPJ, without explicitly naming any leader, the CGPJ considers that this type of statements contribute to "eroding citizens' trust in the Rule of Law". The body recalls that judicial independence, the right to defense, and respect for constitutional principles constitute some of the fundamental pillars on which the Spanish democratic system is based.

In its statement, the Council also warns that a climate of confrontation towards court decisions can weaken the foundations of an advanced democratic society. According to the statement, the instrumentalization of judicial activity for purposes unrelated to its function means questioning the very foundations of the Rule of Law.

Therefore, the CGPJ has reiterated the need to respect the independence of the Judiciary and has stressed that such respect is incompatible with the disqualification of the work of judges or with attributing to the jurisdictional function objectives other than guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of citizens. "The General Council of the Judiciary once again recalls the need to respect the independence of the Judiciary," concludes the statement.