A high-profile trial has begun in Madrid that could prove decisive for former regional government advisor Francisco Granados. Once considered one of the most influential figures in the region’s politics, Granados now finds himself defending against allegations of manipulation of public contracts—accusations tied to the so-called ‘Púnica’ case, which has dominated Spanish headlines for years.
From the outset of hearings at the Audiencia Nacional, Granados’ defense team adopted an aggressive strategy. Lawyers for the former official argue that any alleged crimes attributed to him should already be time-barred. The accusations concern supposed unlawful contracts signed with businessman José Luis Huerta of Waiter Music, which triggered a fresh phase in the investigation and placed Granados squarely at the center of the case.
Legal onslaught
During the first session of the trial, the defense not only challenged the validity of the charges but also categorically denied any involvement in corrupt schemes. According to Granados’ lawyers, he played no role in awarding contracts and had no influence over municipal decisions. Investigators, however, contend the opposite: they claim that Granados, thanks to his position in Esperanza Aguirre’s government and his personal friendship with Huerta, secured lucrative contracts for Waiter Music in several municipalities, including Valdemoro and Ciempozuelos.
Investigator Manuel García-Castellón previously concluded that Granados not only facilitated Huerta’s promotion, but also used his influence to lobby for the company’s interests at the regional level. The indictment notes that the former advisor held a ‘superior position’ and was able to pressure subordinates to secure the desired outcomes.
Prosecution’s demands
The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office is seeking a six-year prison sentence for Granados. But these demands do not end there: representatives of the Socialist Party (PSOE) and the Association of Democratic Lawyers for Europe (Adade), acting as private prosecutors, are pushing for a much harsher penalty—up to 38 years in prison. This range in sentencing requests only heightens public interest in the proceedings and raises questions about the true scale of the corruption scheme.
The ‘Púnica’ case is far more than just another corruption scandal. Since its launch in 2014, it has grown into a major investigation encompassing dozens of episodes and suspects. The current trial is already the fifth, but this is the first time Granados has found himself at the very center of such intense scrutiny from both the court and the public.
Past and present
Granados has previously faced charges in this case. In 2017, he was found guilty and sentenced to two years in prison for receiving inside information from a Guardia Civil officer about the ongoing investigation. However, the current trial is far more significant in scale and public interest: not only is the former official’s freedom at stake, but also the reputation of an entire political generation.
Interestingly, Granados and his circle continue to insist on their innocence. They claim that all the accusations are nothing more than an attempt at revenge and a smear campaign against former officials. Yet judging by the tension in the courtroom, the battle is just beginning, and the outcome remains impossible to predict.
A view from the outside
The trial against Granados has become a litmus test for the entire Spanish political system. Questions of transparency, accountability, and the influence of personal connections on decision-making have once again become the focus of public debate. Many observers note that regardless of the outcome, this case has already become a symbol of the fight against high-level corruption.
As both sides continue to trade arguments and the judges weigh the positions of the defense and prosecution, the public is holding its breath. Spaniards are awaiting the answer to the main question: will the former advisor manage to avoid punishment, or will his name forever be linked to political corruption in Madrid?
