Rome Mayor Raggi Replaces Culture Chief with Former Classmate

Ahead of the municipal elections, Rome's Mayor Virginia Raggi has ousted Deputy Mayor and Culture Councillor Luca Bergamo, along with Economic Development Councillor Carlo Cafarotti. Bergamo, who played a key role in enhancing Rome's cultural landscape, was let go due to "differences in political visions." Lorenza Fruci, a journalist and writer, will take over his position; she has served as the delegate for Equal Opportunities since 2019 and is a former classmate of Raggi from 1992 to 1997. Critics contend that this decision favors loyalty over expertise. Fruci possesses degrees from La Sapienza University and the Academy of Fine Arts Rome and has experience with various media outlets. This reshuffle is perceived as a tactical move with several months remaining in the council term.