Italian Culture Minister Resigns Amid Controversy

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano has resigned following a controversy involving a former mistress, causing embarrassment for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. This resignation marks the first ministerial change in Meloni's right-wing government, which has enjoyed high popularity and faced a fragmented opposition over the past two years.

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano has resigned after a controversy involving a former mistress, according to a source at his ministry announced on Friday. The scandal has brought embarrassment to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's administration.

Sangiuliano's resignation presents a new challenge for Meloni, who now faces her first ministerial replacement since the right-wing government took office. Despite the incident, Meloni's administration has maintained high popularity ratings.

Over the past two years, Meloni's government has appeared solid against a backdrop of a divided opposition. The departure of Sangiuliano may affect the dynamics within her cabinet and the government's public image.

(With inputs from agencies.)