Italy’s far-right government submits plan to decriminalise abuse of office

Proposal to abolish law raises fears of mafia infiltration and abuse of power in public sector

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Italian senators are to debate plans by the far-right government to decriminalise abuse of office, a decision that has sparked tension with the EU and raised fears over the potential for mafia infiltration in the public sector.

Punishable by up to four years in prison, the charge of abuse of office can be brought against public officials, including mayors and local administrators, who are suspected of intentionally exploiting their public position for their own or someone else’s benefit.