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Spain's health minister resigns amid scandal

Mato’s ex-husband, Jesus Sepulveda, is one of 43 people under suspicion in the so-called Gurtel scandal in which the ruling People’s Party allegedly received kickbacks from businesses seeking contracts.

By Danielle Haynes
Former Spanish Health Minister Ana Mato pictured in 2011. Mato resigned Wednesday after she was accused of benefiting from a kickback scheme. Photo by PP Madrid/Flickr.
Former Spanish Health Minister Ana Mato pictured in 2011. Mato resigned Wednesday after she was accused of benefiting from a kickback scheme. Photo by PP Madrid/Flickr.

MADRID, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Spain's Heath Minister Ana Mato resigned Wednesday after she was accused of benefitting from illegal kickbacks her former husband allegedly received.

Mato's ex-husband, Jesus Sepulveda, is one of 43 people under suspicion in the so-called Gurtel scandal in which the ruling People's Party allegedly received kickbacks from businesses seeking contracts. A judge ruled there is enough evidence to try the 43 people.

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Mato was not named as being linked with a crime, but she said she was resigning "in order not to damage the government or her party."

This is the second time in as many months Mato has faced criticism. She came under fire in October for her handling of a case in which a Spanish nurse became infected with the Ebola virus.

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