Post on social media
A controversy began on social media when a fashion influencer posted a photo with a government minister, thanking him for the role of adviser for major events. The blogger had previously shared images with the minister and content implying involvement in ministry activities. Subscriptions indicated involvement in preparations for a G7 culture ministers’ meeting held in Naples.
Initial media reactions followed as subsequent posts surfaced, including boarding passes that evidenced several trips together during the summer. Critics questioned the use of public funds. Further posts suggested that the minister had been removed from certain ministry WhatsApp chats. Officials denied appointing a woman to the post. Later exchanges presented by the blogger claimed that government funds were used for travel expenses and that confidential information circulated, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Audios, screenshots of tickets, and event programs captured on the minister’s devices were cited as part of the claims, depicting interactions during official engagements as well as travel documentation from flights and trains.
Reaction from the Italian Prime Minister
The Prime Minister addressed the situation, noting that the minister had initially considered a different path for the advisor role and asserting that public funds were not used for the companion’s expenses nor was confidential material shared. The Prime Minister emphasized that the minister maintained that no confidential documents were accessed and that no public money supported the companion.
Reports suggested the premier was angry about the unfolding events and that dismissal could be on the table if further expense information emerged from the ministry’s records.
Subsequently, a ministerial letter maintained that the involved individual never participated in administrative procedures and that personal funds covered travel and meals, with explicit emphasis on separate financial handling from the ministry.
Admission
An emotional television interview later featured the minister describing a personal connection that began at a Naples party and evolved into an intimate relationship, ending in early August 2024 by his own choice. He asserted that state resources were never used for loved ones and that personal funds covered trip expenses, including rail and air travel, with access granted to his personal financial records to corroborate the claims. He further explained that the relationship prompted considerations about an appointment, but guidance from legal and private staff indicated potential conflicts of interest, leading to a rejection of the proposal.
The minister indicated that a resignation was discussed with the Prime Minister but that the Prime Minister declined. He expressed remorse toward his spouse and thanked the government for the trust shown, while acknowledging the personal strain of the situation.
Maria Rosaria Boccia’s reaction
The influencer continued posting responses on her personal platform, disputing the claims that the minister paid the expenses from a private bank account and asserting that she attended relevant meetings related to the G7 organization. She criticized perceived authoritarian behavior at the highest level and suggested pressure was being applied to the minister.
She stated that travel arrangements were understood to be ministry-funded, citing correspondence from an assistant as evidence. She hinted at pressure faced by the minister due to opportunities and alleged coercion.
The ongoing dispute amplified her audience growth, with subscriber counts rising markedly as the narrative persisted.
And still resign
Evening reports confirmed the Prime Minister’s acceptance of the minister’s resignation. A formal statement described the former culture minister as talented and honest, praising contributions to cultural revival and international presence. The Prime Minister proposed a successor to lead the Ministry of Culture, expressing confidence in the new appointee’s ability to sustain cultural momentum.
The former minister did not offer public comments beyond sharing the Prime Minister’s message on social media.