Daniela Santanchè

Santanchè was committed for trial in the Visibilia case on charges of false accounting relating to the accounts of group companies. Some earlier acts from 2016 to 2018 were declared time-barred, while the trial on the remaining allegations continued through 2025–2026.

Attribution

Accused

In a case separate from the false accounting charges, Santanchè was implicated in alleged fraud against INPS involving more than 126 000 euros in COVID CIG wage support and thirteen Visibilia employees. Proceedings were slowed by a constitutional question and adjourned for several months in 2026.

In July 2026, Milan prosecutors concluded an investigation targeting Santanchè and others over the bankruptcies of companies linked to Ki Group, Ki Holding, Bioera and Umbria, involving suspected bankruptcy offences, false accounts and alleged fraud concerning approximately 3,3 million euros in Invitalia assistance.

Attribution

Accused

Santanchè resigned as Tourism Minister on 25 March 2026 after months of tension over her judicial proceedings and following a request from Giorgia Meloni. Her resignation ended an enduring conflict within the governing majority over her continued presence in the cabinet.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Political responsibility

The proposed sale or takeover involving Athena and Wip was not completed on the announced terms, while Wip was undergoing administrative checks in Switzerland. Visibilia minority shareholders filed a complaint concerning the transaction and its transparency.

State of the evidence

Documented

The international tourism campaign 'Open to Meraviglia', featuring Botticelli's Venus transformed into an influencer, drew extensive criticism concerning its creativity, practical errors, graphic choices and cost.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Political responsibility

Following an investigation by the programme Report into the management of companies linked to Santanchè, the opposition demanded explanations concerning her assets and business activities. She announced legal action against the programme. The Senate subsequently rejected a no-confidence motion.

Attribution

Political responsibility

Following her appointment as Tourism Minister, Santanchè's interests in companies linked to Twiga and the beach resort sector prompted conflict-of-interest allegations, as the government was due to address the sensitive issue of beach concessions.

State of the evidence

Documented

Santanchè maintained that the Islamic veil was not a compulsory religious requirement and subsequently compared it to a sign of oppression reminiscent of the yellow star. A public confrontation with an imam triggered considerable controversy and, following threats, police protection.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

During a confrontation with students opposing a university reform, Santanchè was accused of giving protesters the middle finger, provoking parliamentary and media controversy.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated