A political controversy is unfolding in Portugal regarding potential payments to former Prime Minister José Sócrates, currently facing legal challenges. The PSD party reportedly found a solution related to the matter, while the Ministry of Finance remained silent. This situation has ignited criticism of the Portuguese justice system, with calls for radical reform. The author frames the key players – the PSD, the Ministry of Finance, and the Justice system – as representing “the good, the bad and the villain” in this unfolding drama. The article suggests a link between these potential payments and the rise of populism, implying that avoiding accountability could fuel further political instability. The lack of transparency from the Ministry of Finance is particularly highlighted as problematic. Ultimately, the piece points to a crisis of trust and responsibility within Portuguese politics.