The 52-year-old politician, in office since 2018, stunned Spain on Wednesday when he announced his intention to resign after a Madrid court opened a preliminary investigation into alleged abuse of power and corruption against his wife, Begona Gomez.
Mr. Sanchez said he would not perform his official duties pending the court’s decision on Monday. The normally hyperactive prime minister has since become inconspicuous and quiet.
According to Madrid city authorities, there were about 12,500 people in the crowd that gathered on Saturday to ask P. to stay in office.
“I hope that Sanchez will say on Monday that he will stay,” said Sara Dominguez, a consultant in her 30s, adding that his government “has taken good steps for women, the LGBT community and minorities.”
Jose María Diez, a 44-year-old government official who came from Valladolid, northern Spain, to show his support, said there was a real chance the far-right would take over if Mr Sanchez stepped down.
“This will mean a step backwards for our rights and freedoms,” he warned.
