Bari Deputy Mayor faces controversy over disability parking

Giovanna Iacovone, the Deputy Mayor and Urban Regeneration Councilor of Bari, is facing political backlash following reports that she has repeatedly parked her vehicle in spaces reserved for people with disabilities. The most recent incident occurred on September 15 in Corso Vittorio Emanuele, directly in front of the City Hall.

Local reports and testimonies from fellow council members suggest this is not an isolated event, with some alleging the practice has continued for approximately two years. The controversy has intensified after it was noted that municipal police did not issue a fine despite the vehicle being parked in a restricted zone.

Political opponents, including Forza Italia and MEP Chiara Maria Gemma, have called for Iacovone's resignation, accusing her of hypocrisy and failing to set a proper example for citizens. The local guarantor for disability rights has also demanded an apology. In response to the criticism, Iacovone has offered an apology and suggested she might switch to using a bicycle.