Rome, June 25 (LaPresse) – A new hearing was held today in the defamation trial against writer Roberto Saviano before the single-judge court in Rome. Saviano is on trial for statements made on social media in 2018 in which he referred to Matteo Salvini, then Minister of the Interior, as the "minister of criminal life." These remarks, according to the prosecution, damaged the reputation of the League leader, who has joined the case as a civil party. "I found that post offensive – as a citizen, as party secretary, and as a minister," Salvini said in response to questions from deputy prosecutor Sergio Colaiocco. "I am used to political criticism, but saying I was a ‘friend of the ’Ndrangheta’ or the ‘minister of criminal life’ is unacceptable. Those words suggested a link to organized crime, which I find appalling." The post in question dates back to June 2018, just days after the formation of the League–Five Star Movement government, and was widely shared due to Saviano’s large social media following. "I reread those posts," Salvini added, "and I still consider them harsh and unfounded. My top priority as minister has always been the fight against the mafia." On the topic of security detail, a frequent point of contention between the two, Salvini clarified: "I’ve also been living under police protection for years, just like the defendant. I’ve never done anything to undermine Saviano in that regard." Finally, Salvini confirmed he has no intention of dropping the complaint: "I want to see this through. Freedom of expression must not become freedom to defame."
The trial will continue in the coming weeks with new testimonies and the possible hearing of Saviano himself.