Juan Carlos chose to leave Spain in 2020 after being discredited over a major corruption scandal. His reputation as a womanizer did not help the image of his son Felipe. With his departure, he hoped to give his son some air. Spanish prosecutors announced last week that they would close all investigations into Juan Carlos’ financial activities, raising speculation that Juan Carlos might return to Spain. However, the former king has decided to spend his old age in the United Arab Emirates. He will, however, visit Spain regularly, he writes to his son.
Pride
“Dear son, in August 2020, I informed you of my decision to leave Spain in order to facilitate the performance of your functions. Since then I have lived in Abu Dhabi, a place where I have adapted my way of life and where I really appreciate their wonderful hospitality,” he begins his letter. He says he has considered his return, but at the moment “for reasons my private sphere and which concern me only, to remain permanently in Abu Dhabi’. “Where I have found peace of mind, especially for this period of my life. Although of course I will regularly return to Spain, which I always carry in my heart, to visit family and friends.” He does indicate during those future visits that he ‘wants to enjoy the greatest possible privacy’. „I am aware that events from the past influence public opinion. I deeply regret it, as I also feel legitimate pride in my contribution to the democratic society and freedom in Spain, the result of the collective effort and sacrifice of all Spanish people.” At the end of his letter, he says that he is ‘immensely proud’ of his son.
Scandal
Justice conducted several investigations into Juan Carlos’ money flows and possessions. This included an investigation into the involvement of the former king in the sale of contracts for the construction of the ‘high-speed train of the desert’ in Saudi Arabia. He would have received commission for that. The cases against Juan Carlos have been dropped for several reasons, including the lack of incriminating evidence and the immunity of the head of state. However, according to his lawyer, he coughed up millions last year to clear his arrears to the Spanish tax authorities. Juan Carlos ruled Spain from 1975 to 2014. He withdrew as head of state for health reasons, but officially kept his title.
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