Italy: Judicial rift grows over Senator Scarpinato's role in Mafia investigation

A judicial and political conflict has emerged in Italy following a decision by Judge Santi Bologna to archive the 'Mafia-Appalti' investigation regarding the 1992 massacres. The ruling included findings of “depistante” (misleading) activities by Senator Roberto Scarpinato, a former prosecutor and current member of the Movimento 5 Stelle.

In response to Scarpinato’s accusations of “institutional bullying” against the judge, the local executive board of the National Association of Magistrates (ANM) in Caltanissetta issued a statement expressing solidarity with Judge Bologna. This move has caused significant friction within the judiciary, with various groups, including Unicost and the Consulta dei Giovani di Magistratura Indipendente, calling for protective measures for the judge through the Superior Council of the Magistracy (CSM).

The situation has taken on a political dimension as members of the Fratelli d'Italia party have used the ANM Caltanissetta's stance to demand that Scarpinato resign from the Antimafia Commission, arguing he has been “isolated and disavowed by his own magistracy.” Scarpinato has maintained his position, criticizing the political majority for using judicial decrees to silence him.