Rai faces leadership changes and legal battle with Sigfrido Ranucci

The Italian public broadcaster Rai is facing significant internal upheaval. The company's Board of Directors is addressing the departure of Director General Roberto Sergio, who is set to leave on September 30.

Simultaneously, Rai is embroiled in a legal and disciplinary conflict with journalist Sigfrido Ranucci. Ranucci has filed an urgent appeal with the Rome Labor Tribunal seeking reinstatement as the host and author of the investigative program ‘Report’ following his removal. His legal team argues the decision was discriminatory and lacked sufficient motivation.

Rai has also notified Ranucci of disciplinary proceedings following an investigation by the company's ethics committee. The company claims the investigation concerns violations of internal rules regarding personal conduct, specifically related to certain statements and publications. Ranucci has five days to submit a defense.

The controversy is further complicated by Ranucci's relationship with Valter Lavitola, who has admitted to being the mastermind behind an attack against the journalist. Journalist Michele Santoro has criticized Ranucci for not distancing himself from Lavitola following the confession. Additionally, reports have surfaced regarding past internal audits and allegations of irregular behavior within the program.