José Sócrates denies lawyer influence in Operação Marquês trial

Former Prime Minister José Sócrates addressed the Operação Marquês trial, denying any influence over the successive resignations of his legal counsel. He characterized suggestions that the departures were orchestrated as a “grave injustice.”

During his testimony, Sócrates accused the court and the Public Ministry of “character assassination” regarding the interrogation of Célia Tavares. He expressed “nausea” over how the session was conducted, arguing it became a matter of public exposure rather than a legal inquiry. Tavares previously testified regarding a relationship with Sócrates and the receipt of money delivered by his driver, João Perna.

Additionally, Sócrates pointed out a clerical error in the prosecution's indictment concerning corruption for an unlawful act, noting it was incorrectly described as a lawful act. He also questioned the ongoing trial of former Banco Espírito Santo president Ricardo Salgado following his Alzheimer's diagnosis.