Italian investigative TV host Sigfrido Ranucci sidelined after bomb attack

Italy's public broadcaster, RAI, has announced a significant change ahead of its new television season, removing Sigfrido Ranucci, the prominent host of the investigative program 'Report,' from his position. This decision has sent shockwaves through the country's media landscape and sparked considerable debate.

Ranucci, who has fronted the popular program for nearly a decade, will be replaced by two younger colleagues. While such transitions are common, Ranucci's departure is particularly notable due to its timing and context. It follows a bomb attack at his Rome home less than a year ago, an incident initially suspected to be linked to the mafia, given Ranucci's history of receiving threats.

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Over 2 years you will be prime minister.

However, the investigation took an unexpected turn when a friend of Ranucci's, businessman Valter Lavitola, confessed to orchestrating the attack. Lavitola claimed the motive was to ensure Ranucci received adequate police protection. Some Italian media outlets have suggested Lavitola also aimed to position Ranucci for a political career, with alleged predictions of him becoming prime minister. Ranucci has vehemently denied any prior knowledge of Lavitola's plans, and investigators have found no evidence to support claims of his involvement.

The controversy has drawn in politicians, particularly from right-wing parties, as 'Report' has a reputation for investigating them. Matteo Salvini, Italy's Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, publicly called for Ranucci's removal. While RAI had already canceled reruns of 'Report' during the summer, Salvini's comments amplified the pressure. Elly Schlein, leader of the center-left Democratic Party, suggested that the ruling parties have long sought to weaken Ranucci's investigative program.

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The right decision.