Ranucci, those 'close' ties between the journalist and the 5 Star Movement: applause and joint rallies

The relationship between journalist Sigfrido Ranucci and Italy's Five Star Movement (M5S) has been described as a "correspondence of loving senses" dating back to March 2017. This period coincided with Ranucci assuming leadership of the investigative program 'Report' and Luigi Di Maio becoming the M5S leader.

While the M5S had previously shown sympathy for investigative journalism, Ranucci's tendency to emphasize ideology and politics reportedly solidified the connection. Early investigations by Ranucci, such as one on adverse reactions to the HPV vaccine, garnered favor with the M5S. Previously, a report on the rescue of the newspaper 'L'Unità,' which hinted at an unclear role for the Democratic Party (Pd), triggered a strong campaign by Di Maio, increasing the program's visibility.

Although Ranucci investigated M5S funding in 2020, the consequences ultimately affected Dino Giarrusso, who was referred to the party's ethics committee. 'Report' also exposed delays in the pandemic plan under the Conte government and looked into Chinese mask procurement contracts, which are now under parliamentary inquiry.

However, since the Meloni government took office, 'Report's' focus on government figures has seen Ranucci receive unwavering support from the M5S. This backing is represented in the Rai Supervisory Commission by Barbara Floridia, a close associate of Conte, and deputies Dario Carotenuto and Dolores Bevilacqua. The strength of this support has led the center-right to question whether the opposition's resignations from the commission were intended to shield Ranucci from scrutiny.

Recent wiretaps revealing conversations between Ranucci and Carotenuto about the potential involvement of a Member of Parliament from Brothers of Italy (FdI) in an attack on the journalist have intensified suspicions that some 'Report' investigations may have been inspired by the M5S. These doubts were previously voiced by Maurizio Gasparri of Forza Italia (FI) last year, who accused reporter Giulia Innocenzi of being tasked by M5S deputy Alessandro Caramiello to investigate him.

A significant point in the cordial understanding between M5S and Ranucci since 2017 occurred on October 16, marking a peak in the journalist's popularity. Five days later, an M5S-organized demonstration in Rome visibly showcased Ranucci's potential, drawing a large crowd despite heavy rain. Conte, who introduced the journalist on stage, recognized Ranucci's capacity to influence public opinion, supported by the judiciary, represented within M5S by Federico Cafiero de Raho and Roberto Scarpinato.