Marco Bucci, the mayor of Genoa, has issued a forceful response to ongoing investigations surrounding port operations and alleged corruption. In a recent interview, Bucci characterized the current situation as a 'game of massacre' that he refuses to accept, stating his immediate need for clarity regarding his own position and his willingness to speak directly with prosecutors.
The mayor specifically addressed serious allegations suggesting he used funds from the Genoa decree, intended for the reconstruction of the Morandi Bridge, to grant favors to Aldo Spinelli. Bucci labeled this claim a 'falsity' that deeply hurts him, clarifying that the money in question belongs to the Port Authority and is unrelated to the bridge project. He explained that the expansion of the Calata Concenter area is part of a broader Masterplan for the port, designed to utilize excavation material from a sub-port tunnel to create new working space without the high costs of external disposal.
Bucci emphasized that the assignment of these port areas is the exclusive competence of the Port Authority, not the mayor's office. He noted that while Spinelli could theoretically apply for these zones, there is no guarantee they would be assigned to him, despite his existing holdings in the surrounding area. The mayor argued that the city and port were previously advancing according to a precise plan that many are now pretending to forget.
Regarding intercepted conversations, Bucci clarified that a specific phrase attributed to him regarding operators was actually spoken by former regional president Giovanni Toti, as confirmed by a judicial order. He also addressed his own remarks about 'pigs,' explaining that the metaphor referred to the chaotic disputes that arise whenever new port areas become available, a concept previously articulated by Claudio Burlando.
The mayor expressed deep emotional involvement in the investigation, noting that it concerns people he worked with daily. He stated that he feels betrayed, particularly regarding Paolo Emilio Signorini, whom Bucci supported for a leadership role at Iren. While he maintains hope to work again with Giovanni Toti, Bucci admitted that if certain behaviors are proven true, it represents a significant personal and systemic problem.
Despite the turmoil, Bucci reaffirmed his commitment to Genoa, stating he will not run for regional president as he has made a promise to the city. He highlighted the critical task of implementing 7 billion euros in PNRR funds for Genoa. However, he warned that if the situation does not resolve quickly, he might consider resigning, echoing former President Oscar Luigi Scalfaro's sentiment about refusing to participate in a 'game of massacre.' Bucci concluded by urging the city to move past scandalous reconstructions and focus on the unique opportunity to transform the region.
Sources: Corriere della Sera.