RAI removes Sigfrido Ranucci from investigative programme “Report”

Rome, Italy. Italian opposition parties have criticised state broadcaster RAI’s decision to remove veteran journalist Sigfrido Ranucci as presenter of its flagship investigative programme “Report”, describing it as an attack on press freedom. Government allies have welcomed the move.

RAI decision

RAI announced late on Friday that Ranucci would be removed after nine years presenting “Report”, one of Italy’s most watched and influential current affairs programmes.

“I will no longer host ‘Report’, but I will lead the most important battle of my life: the fight for press freedom,” Ranucci said after learning of the decision.

The case, referred to in Italian media as the “Ranucci affair”, has dominated coverage for weeks, with his removal leading the main newspapers on Saturday.

Bomb attack investigation

The dispute began with a bomb attack outside Ranucci’s home in October last year, which initially prompted messages of support from across the political spectrum.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, whose party had frequently been investigated by “Report”, condemned the attack as a “serious act of intimidation”. The government said Ranucci’s police escort would be strengthened.

The position of ruling politicians changed after businessman Valter Lavitola, a longtime associate of Ranucci’s, was arrested this month. According to his lawyer, Lavitola told prosecutors that he had ordered the attack.

Authorities have found no evidence that Ranucci had prior knowledge of the bombing. Lavitola’s arrest, however, prompted articles in pro-government media alleging a plot to raise Ranucci’s profile before a possible move into politics.

Debate over RAI independence

The political reaction has renewed a longstanding debate over RAI’s independence. Its board is appointed by parliament and the government, while critics say its editorial direction is shaped by the ruling coalition of the day.