ROME – Gianmarco Mazzi took the oath of office Friday as Italy’s new minister of tourism, marking another personnel change in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration following her recent setback in a judicial reform referendum.
Mazzi, who previously served as culture undersecretary and has experience as a television and entertainment industry executive, steps into the role after Daniela Santanche stepped down from the position last week. Santanche departed under pressure from Meloni while facing criminal proceedings related to accounting irregularities at a media company she formerly controlled.
The Prime Minister announced Mazzi’s appointment on her X social media platform, stating that his experience in cultural and entertainment industries would benefit Italy. She shared images from the oath ceremony conducted by President Sergio Mattarella.
Following her referendum loss last week, Meloni has been working to regain political momentum by removing officials embroiled in controversies from her administration. The tourism ministry change comes alongside the departure of two high-ranking justice ministry officials.
