Mariano Rajoy becomes first Spanish PM to testify in court

Mariano Rajoy, becomes first sitting Spanish prime minister to testify in court as he denied any knowledge of an alleged illegal financing scheme within his Popular Party (PP).

Mr Rajoy said his role at the party was political and strategic, not financial.

The prosecution claims that during the pre-2008 property boom, companies gave former PP lawmakers and civil servants kickbacks in return for contracts.

Mr Rajoy is not accused of wrongdoing. His request to testify at the trial in the Madrid suburb of San Fernando by video link was denied.

But he was seated on the same platform as the judges, not in the traditional witness stand.

Thirty-seven people, including three former PP treasurers, are on trial in the case that centres around the alleged ringleader, businessman Francisco Correa.

Correa is already serving a 13-year sentence for influence peddling and bribery, and could face up to 125 years.

UCJ, UNILORIN.