Ranucci Accuses Italian Government of Targeting His Investigative Show

Strasbourg: Rai investigative reporter Sigfrido Ranucci on Thursday accused the government of empowering Italy’s privacy watchdog to make life difficult for his Report show and criticized the solidarity he has received after last week’s bomb attack outside his home near Rome. “Over the last few days I’ve been getting bipartisan solidarity, but it’s proving to be hypocritical,” Ranucci said via video-link to a press conference at the European Parliament.

According to Ansa News Agency, the press conference was organized by Democratic Party (PD) MEP Sandro Ruotolo. Ranucci expressed concerns about the Italian Data Protection Authority, claiming it is being used to punish his show, Report, and potentially discourage other programs. He urged the European Data Protection Authority to investigate the operations of the Italian watchdog, suggesting it functions as an extension of the Italian government.

Ranucci also expressed appreciation for the European Union’s efforts in introducing the European Media Freedom Act. He believes this legislation could soon liberate state broadcaster Rai and other media from political influences.