Spain's prime minister has effectively quit because of a corruption scandal

Denis Doyle/ Getty Images

Mariano Rajoy, Spain's prime minister, has admitted defeat ahead a parliamentary vote to oust him from office.

Rajoy said before the Spanish parliament before a vote of no confidence on Friday, according to El Pais:

"It has been an honour to be the president of the Government of Spain, it has been an honor to leave Spain better than what I found. I wish my substitute could say the same when he comes. I wish it for the good of Spain.

"I think I have fulfilled the mandate of the seat, to serve the life of the people. If anyone has felt injured in this House or beyond, I apologise. Thank you all, especially to my party.

"Thank you to the Spaniards for giving me their understanding and support, and good luck to all for the good of Spain."

The vote of no confidence came a court convicted Rajoy's former aides of running slush funds to help finance election campaigns for his Popular Party in a years-long corruption scandal. Rajoy has denied any knowledge of the funds, and said he had not taken any illicit payments.

A majority of opposition members of parliament said on Thursday that they would reject him in Friday's vote.

The motion to vote was filed by Pedro Sanchez, the leader of Rajoy's biggest opposition party.