Mayor Sala denies wrongdoing in Milan corruption investigation

In Italy, Milan is currently under scrutiny due to a significant corruption investigation related to urban development over the past two decades. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala stated he would not resign despite facing allegations of corruption, asserting that his hands are clean. The investigation involves more than 70 individuals, including him and key officials in the development sector. Prosecutors are accusing developers of bribing officials to expedite building permits and secure approval for various projects, including constructions linked to the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. As part of this probe, the city’s top urban development official, Giancarlo Tancredi, has resigned, similarly denying any misconduct while stating his conscience is clear. Sala, who is nearing the end of his second term, emphasized his actions were in the city’s best interest during discussions with the city council. He affirmed his commitment to serving until the end of his term, which concludes in 2026, and sought to advance numerous ongoing development projects. Meanwhile, the investigation has triggered calls for Sala’s resignation from the center-right majority governing from Rome, who urges accountability amidst the allegations. While the political landscape appears divided, Sala has garnered support from Lombardy's regional governor, Attilio Fontana, a significant figure in the center-right political spectrum. Furthermore, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has indicated that investigations should not directly compel political resignations, advocating instead for a balanced approach to such inquiries. The backdrop of this scandal is the rapid transformation of Milan’s urban landscape over the past years, coinciding with major events like the 2015 Expo and preparations for the upcoming Olympics, which have significantly influenced real estate dynamics. As development skyrocketed, many local residents expressed concern about being pushed out due to gentrification and rising property values. Sala acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to foster fairness and balance in Milan’s development initiatives, recognizing the challenges faced by ordinary workers in light of the city’s booming real estate market.