Challenged by associations, the mayor of Taranto resigns

A political upheaval has struck in Taranto: Mayor Piero Bitetti has resigned, approximately 50 days after his election, citing a "political unfitness" in his letter filed with the city's records. The decision follows strong protests from residents and environmental groups following a meeting on the future of the former Ilva steelworks.

As they left the meeting, which preceded the July 30 City Council meeting on the government's proposed decarbonization agreement, a group of protesters blocked the mayor's path, chanting "murderers, murderers." Bitetti was forced to return to City Hall for safety reasons.

"Respect our shortcomings," he declared. "We are taking notes to understand every aspect of this complex issue." The mayor had expressed his willingness to meet with other representatives of the associations the following morning. "We are here," he said during the meeting, "to defend the territory. I haven't spent a single night since June 17th, the day of my proclamation, without thinking about the former Ilva. The first draft agreement was sent to us on June 18th, requesting approval within 48 hours. We said that the proposed 13-year transition period is too long. We need a more respectful direction."

The associations issued a harsh tone. "Defend the right to life," they demanded in unison. Pediatrician Annamaria Moschetti (Pediatri e Peacelink Cultural Association) recalled that "there is irrefutable data: a 50% increase in autism spectrum disorders compared to the province. The precautionary principle dictates stopping exposure, without waiting for the latest scientific study." Bitetti's appointment comes just hours before two crucial events: the single-issue city council meeting on July 30th and the MIMIT summit on the 31st. His absence now risks leaving an institutional vacuum at a crucial juncture for the city's future. As required by law, the mayor now has 20 days to confirm or withdraw his resignation.