Despite his health issues, the judge emphasized the necessity of holding Salgado accountable, citing social pacification and public interest as critical factors.

Salgado attempted to maintain a façade of stability for the bank even amid its decline, which ultimately contributed to the financial disaster.

Ricciardi testified that Salgado justified financial transfers as essential for capital increases, indicating a pattern of mismanagement.

Victims of the BES scandal have expressed their frustrations, with one individual demanding the return of lost investments and questioning the lack of provisions for those affected.

Salgado's defense team argued that his deteriorating health and loss of autonomy should be considered, warning that continuing the trial could lead to condemnation by the European Court of Human Rights.

Ricardo Salgado, the former president of Banco Espirito Santo (BES), is the main defendant in a high-profile trial facing 62 charges, including corruption, fraud, and money laundering.

This case, part of the Universo Espírito Santo scandal, involves 18 defendants and over 300 alleged crimes, marking it as one of the largest legal proceedings in Portuguese history.

The trial begins more than a decade after the collapse of the Espirito Santo Group (GES) in August 2014, which had significant repercussions on the Portuguese banking sector.

José Maria Ricciardi, a key witness and former president of BESI, testified that Salgado wielded unchecked power while other shareholders were unaware of the bank's dire situation.

Outside the court, banners demanding justice for BES victims were displayed, highlighting the ongoing impact of the scandal on individuals and families.

The defense has indicated plans to appeal the court's decisions, claiming that the inability to contest certain statements undermines their client's right to a fair trial.

The trial serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing reflection and reform within the financial sector to prevent similar crises in the future.