Former Ligurian Governor Giovanni Toti Faces Corruption Trial

Former Ligurian governor Giovanni Toti is set to stand trial on corruption charges. Toti, arrested in May for allegedly receiving bribes, denies all allegations. The trial, also involving businessmen Aldo Spinelli and Paolo Emilio Signorini, will commence in November in Genoa.

In a significant turn of events, an Italian judge has ordered Giovanni Toti, the former centre-right governor of Liguria, to stand trial on charges of corruption. Toti, who was placed under house arrest on May 7 and subsequently resigned on July 26, has been accused of accepting over 70,000 euros in bribes related to port terminal contracts, building permits, and a beach concession.

Sources indicate that the trial is set to begin on November 5 at the Court of Genoa. Toti, who denies all allegations, has helmed Liguria for nine years with an alliance of parties supporting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Two other individuals, well-known port businessman Aldo Spinelli and former IREN head Paolo Emilio Signorini, have also been implicated in the case.

The accusations have stirred controversy within Italy's political landscape, particularly among right-wing coalition members who have criticized the Genoa magistrates for Toti's arrest. Lawyers for the accused parties were not immediately available for comment. The exchange rate at the time was $1 to 0.9137 euros.

(With inputs from agencies.)