Galeazzo Bignami quits Italy's Covid inquiry commission to demand audit, urges Conte to follow

Deputy Galeazzo Bignami, a member of the parliamentary commission investigating Italy’s handling of the Covid‑19 pandemic, resigned from the body in order to be heard as a witness. He argued that his resignation removes the incompatibility that prevents a commissioner from simultaneously being an investigator and a subject of inquiry. Bignami said his move should serve “an example for Conte, who continues to hide behind immunity.”

He also urged former prime minister and Five Star Movement leader Giuseppe Conte to step down from the commission and submit to an audit. Conte responded in a letter, stating he would make himself available for questioning “provided a prompt reintegration after the audit.” The dispute reflects ongoing political tension over alleged irregularities in mask contracts, consultancy fees and other pandemic‑related procurements. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commented that the commission’s work had uncovered “objectively incredible” elements that merit journalistic attention.