Author: Soorya G
The president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, is in the middle of a major controversy following an alleged forced kiss with player Jeni Hermoso after the Spanish team won the FIFA Women’s World Cup. In the midst of this controversy, Rubiales, who claims to be innocent, has received support from his family. His mother, Angeles Bejar, adopted a rather bizarre form of protest, locking herself in a church and starting a hunger strike. The mother of the Spanish Football Federation official is determined to prolong her fast until her son is acquitted of all charges. Pressure is currently mounting for Rubiales to step down, which Bejar calls a “bloody and inhumane witch-hunt”.
In his effort to protect his son, Bejar summoned Jenni Hermoso, who was involved in the incident, to “tell the truth” and stick to his initial version of events. Bejar firmly maintains that there was no sexual assault, saying that “both parties consented, as the photographs show”.
Bejar’s conviction in his son’s character is unshakeable. She said: “They are subjecting my son to what he doesn’t deserve. Why are they being so cruel to him? What’s behind all this? My son can’t hurt anyone“. Speaking about his health, Bejar emphasized his determination to protect his son, stating: “I’m fine. I believe in God very much and I’m seeking justice. I will remain here as long as my body lives. I’m not averse to sacrificing my life for justice because my son is an honorable person“.
Incidentally, Luis Rubiales has provided video evidence confirming that a false campaign was launched against him. The video was recorded inside the Spanish team bus, where the footballers looked at the photo with the kiss and laughed, calling Hermoso a “kiss”. We agree that, after such behavior, the footballers’ subsequent words seem hypocritical.
Luis Rubiales’ cousin, Vanessa Ruiz Bejar, criticized those who oppose him, saying: “People have been jealous of him for years, they want to put everything on him. They decided to exploit the situation“. Vanessa noted that Rubiales is “devastated” by his mother’s protest. While acknowledging Rubiales’ mistake, she questions whether the kiss should be considered “sexual harassment”. The sentiments are echoed in Rubiales’ extended family. Her cousin believes there is a “global lynching” underway, for which the world should be ashamed.
However, several former and current players, experts, fans and activists have taken a stand against Rubiales and say that the manager’s actions demand his immediate resignation.
Update – Meanwhile, Rubiales’ mother has been taken to hospital on the third day of her hunger strike.