Ercolano PD secretary suspends after video with camorra figure

A video shared on social media captured Ercolano Democratic Party (PD) secretary Antonello Cozzolino and newly elected councilor Marco Cozzolino celebrating the municipal election victory in a pizzeria alongside convicted camorra associate Natale Suarino. In the footage Cozzolino says, “Pagherò la mia scommessa, Natale.” The clip sparked a political storm. Cozzolino announced his auto‑suspension from the party, and regional and provincial PD leaders Piero De Luca and Francesco Dinacci immediately commissaried the Ercolano party branch, stating, “Le immagini e le frasi … sono incompatibili con i nostri valori.” Mayor Antonietta Garzia demanded full clarification, emphasizing that “the votes of the camorra are not wanted.” Europarliamentarian Sandro Ruotolo called for further suspensions, including of Nancy Scognamiglio, who was also present. Former mayor Ciro Buonajuto reinforced the need to purge any “shadow” from the administration. The incident has intensified scrutiny of PD’s internal controls and its stance against organized crime in the region.