cni intelligence agency
Saiz presented his resignation to Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero to avoid "a possible deterioration" of the CNI, a unit of the Spanish Defence Ministry
03.07.09 - 09:39 -
File photograph of Alberto Saiz.
The director of Spain's CNI intelligence agency, Alberto Saiz, on Thursday presented his resignation after being accused of using public funds for private ends.
Gen. Felix Sanz Roldán, formerly head of the defence staff, will be nominated on Friday to replace Saiz, CNI sources told Efe.
Saiz presented his resignation to Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero to avoid "a possible deterioration" of the CNI, a unit of the Spanish Defence Ministry.
The departed spy chief said he feels that remaining in his post could wind up "harming the image of the government of Spain," which he said he had served "loyally."
Saiz decided to resign his post after accusations surfaced regarding his alleged use of public funds for private purchases, something that he personally denied in several appearances before Parliament.
Defence Minister Carme Chacón last week requested "complete confidential information" about the accusations.
Saiz said on Thursday that he made his decision to resign after a "process of calm and profound reflection" and amid the "personal wear suffered because of the media campaign directed against his honor and his personal and professional prestige."
Conservative Madrid daily El Mundo had reported the accusations against Saiz.
The erstwhile CNI director allegedly used public funds for personal hunting and fishing trips in exotic countries, cleaning the swimming pool at his house and helping relatives and friends, the newspaper said.
