Minister's Affair Scandal Shakes Italian Government

Italy's culture minister, Gennaro Sangiuliano, admitted to an affair with Maria Rosaria Boccia, an aide. This controversy threatens Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. Sangiuliano apologized to his wife, Meloni, and offered to resign, which was rejected. The scandal involves questions of public fund usage and confidential document access.

In a tearful prime time TV interview, Italy's culture minister, Gennaro Sangiuliano, admitted to an affair with Maria Rosaria Boccia, a woman who claimed to have been hired as an aide. This scandal is testing the solidity of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government.

Sangiuliano's actions and his relationship with Boccia have dominated Italian headlines, creating significant pressure on Meloni since her return from summer vacation. The right-wing coalition leader has remained loyal to her appointed team, contributing to a rare period of political stability in Italy.

However, the opposition has raised concerns about Boccia's role, questioning whether she benefited from public funds and had access to confidential documents. Sangiuliano, visibly emotional, offered an apology and resigned, which Meloni rejected. He clarified Boccia's involvement with the ministry, denying any misuse of public funds or access to classified information.

(With inputs from agencies.)