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A shocking episode during the demonstration
During the event “Libri come 2025 – Festa del libro e della lettura” in Rome, an episode caught the attention of the media and public opinion. Journalist Lavinia Orefici, correspondent for Quarta Repubblica, asked President Romano Prodi a question, receiving an unexpected and unpleasant answer. Prodi, visibly annoyed, reacted aggressively, calling the question “vulgar” and pulling a lock of the journalist’s hair.
This gesture has sparked outrage and raised questions about the conduct of a former political leader.
The reaction of the journalist and the institutions
Lavinia Orefici described the incident as “shocking,” stressing that, after years of experience in journalism, she would never have expected such behavior from a former Prime Minister. Her testimony highlighted not only Prodi’s verbal aggression, but also the physical gesture that exceeded all limits of respect and professionalism. Orefici said she felt offended both as a journalist and as a woman, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Romano Prodi's words and the consequences
In response to the accusations, Romano Prodi denied having pushed the journalist, saying that he had simply placed a hand on her shoulder. However, his words did not quell the controversy. Orefici expressed regret that Prodi had not apologized for the gesture, which will be visible in a video that will be broadcast. This episode has reignited the debate on the conduct of politicians towards journalists and the importance of maintaining respectful behavior, especially in public contexts.