Vicens refuses to resign over scandal

PALMA
FRESH infighting within the Socialist-led Balearic left-wing coalition government broke out yesterday evening with the leader of the government, Francesc Antich and members of the Bloc (Greens, and Nationalists) calling for the spokesperson of the coalition - Majorcan Union party member, Bartomeu Vicens, to resign over his, his wife's and an accomplice's alleged involvement in the Son Oms corruption investigation.

Earlier Vicens and his wife appeared before the judge investigating alleged irregularities in the sale and purchase of plots of land on the Son Oms industrial estate in Palma during the 1990's. Vicens is alleged to have deposited 51'000 euros in a Cayman back account during the period being investigated to avoid tax.

However, Vicens only answered the questions of his lawyers and ignored those of the prosecution. He now faces the threat of jail because there are concerns he could hamper the investigation.

Bail was set for Vicens's wife at 40'000 euros and the couple's alleged accomplice was released with charges. Her passport has also been confiscated and she is forbidden to leave the country until further notice.