Liguria‘s regional president, Giovanni Toti, was recorded soliciting favors from businessman Alessandro Spinelli ahead of upcoming elections, according too audio released May 13, 2024. The recording, obtained by Il Corriere della Sera, captures Toti requesting unspecified “stuff” from Spinelli during a visit, raising questions about potential illicit campaign finance and influence peddling.
The conversation, dated May 13, 2024, occured before the european elections and regional elections in Liguria, scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2024, respectively. Toti, a prominent figure in the League party, appears to be leveraging his position to seek assistance from Spinelli, whose companies have benefitted from regional contracts. The incident has sparked immediate calls for inquiry from opposition parties and raises concerns about openness in regional governance.
According to the transcript, toti told Spinelli, “I come to visit you before the elections. I ask you for a bit of stuff.” The context surrounding the request remains unclear, but the phrasing has fueled speculation about potential requests for financial contributions or other forms of support. Spinelli’s business group, which operates in the logistics and port sectors, has received significant regional funding and contracts during Toti’s tenure as president.
Giovanni Toti has served as President of Liguria sence 2015, initially elected as part of a center-right coalition. He is a former journalist and television presenter who entered politics with forza italia before joining the league. The Liguria region, located in northwestern Italy, has a population of approximately 1.6 million and is a key economic hub due to its ports and tourism industry. The upcoming elections are considered crucial for the political landscape of the region and could significantly impact future regional policies.
© RESERVED REPRODUCTION
