In a dramatic turn of events, the mother of Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales has locked herself in a church and started a hunger strike. Ángeles Béjar, determined to bring attention to what she calls an “inhuman, bloodthirsty witch hunt” against her son, has taken refuge in the church of the Divine Shepherdess in Motril, Andalusia. As the controversy surrounding Rubiales continues to grow, his mother’s protest highlights the emotional toll it has taken on his family.
Rubiales was recently hit with a provisional 90-day suspension from all football-related activities by FIFA due to his conduct after Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win. The Supreme Sports Council of Spain is also seeking his removal from office. The controversy stems from Rubiales’ unsolicited kiss on Spanish player Jenni Hermoso, which has sparked accusations of sexual abuse. Prosecutors have opened a preliminary investigation into the incident.
Béjar’s protest is a testament to a mother’s love and unwavering belief in her son’s innocence. She has vowed to continue her hunger strike until Rubiales is vindicated, declaring that there was no sexual abuse as “there is consent on both sides, as the images prove.” Béjar firmly believes that her son is incapable of hurting anyone and has been unfairly judged.
Vanessa Ruiz Béjar, Rubiales’ cousin, confirmed the distressing situation and expressed her frustration at the treatment of her family. She spoke about the immense hardship they are facing and criticized the accusations of harassment as unfounded. Vanessa pleaded for Jenni Hermoso to tell the truth, questioning why she had changed her story multiple times. The family feels harassed and demands honesty from Hermoso.
The public response to Rubiales’ behavior has been overwhelming, with widespread condemnation from football clubs, players, and politicians. A football match called the “Friends of Rubiales” was scheduled to take place in Motril with the RFEF president’s involvement but was canceled by the local town hall due to concerns over public order. The backlash against Rubiales and his refusal to take responsibility for his actions has tarnished his reputation.
The scandal surrounding Rubiales has brought attention to the systemic problem of male chauvinism in Spain. Yolanda Díaz, Spain’s Labor Minister and deputy prime minister, condemned Rubiales’ conduct as the worst form of male chauvinism. She called for a wider change in social attitudes and better protection for victims of sexual harassment and violence. Díaz’s comments reflect the urgent need to address these deep-rooted issues in Spanish society.
As the controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales deepens, his mother’s hunger strike serves as a desperate plea for justice and fairness. Standing firm in the belief of her son’s innocence, Ángeles Béjar is demanding that the truth be revealed. The unfolding scandal has laid bare the challenges faced in addressing issues of sexual abuse and harassment, while also highlighting the impact it has on the families involved. Time will tell how this story unfolds and whether justice will prevail.
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