Recently, a conference entitled “The Constitution of all: Dialogue on the Premiership” was held in the Queen’s Hall at Montecitorio. The conference was “wanted” by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and organized by the Craxi and De Gasperi Foundations. In addition to ministers and parliamentarians, representatives from the business, entertainment, and sports worlds were also present in the audience. Among them was also the parish priest of Caivano, Don Maurizio Patriciello. The Governor of Campania, Vincenzo De Luca, did not appreciate this, criticizing the selection of “VIPs” by Meloni to promote the Premiership, including the priest whom he referred to as “Pippo Baudo from the northern area of Naples with his bangs.”
Don Patriciello responded to De Luca’s remarks, feeling hurt by the irony directed towards him. He expressed disappointment at the President’s comments and stated that he did not deserve the unwarranted insults. Despite being accustomed to insults and threats, he found it more hurtful coming from a person like De Luca. Nevertheless, he offered this humiliation to the Lord, maintaining his composure and faith as a priest. He bid farewell to the President, acknowledging that he would likely face ridicule from bullies and criminals in the future.
Don Patriciello, a priest under police protection, has been a strong advocate against the Camorra in the land of fires, where toxic waste disposed of by the mafia has caused health hazards and deaths. Despite the progress made with Don Patriciello’s efforts, the presence of the priest at the conference on the Premiership organized by Giorgia Meloni, and De Luca’s criticism remains controversial. Don Patriciello has appealed for government intervention in areas where the State has been absent, which has led to challenges and tragedies in the community.
Last summer, two young girls were raped by a group at the Parco Verde in Caivano, prompting Meloni, the Prime Minister, to visit at the priest’s invitation. She acknowledged the failings of the State, sparking a sense of solidarity and promises of government support. Meloni’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the community in Caivano has divided opinions among those combating the Camorra. While some believe it is essential to engage with the government for tangible benefits, others view it as a betrayal of the anti-mafia principles.
Despite the controversy, Don Patriciello, as the shepherd of the community, accepts the presence of the Prime Minister, listens to her promises, and advocates for government support. Meloni’s actions, including appointing a Government Commissioner for the area and implementing support measures, signal a potential shift in the government’s approach to addressing issues in Caivano. The collaboration between the State and the community represented by Don Patriciello reflects a desire for change and a break from the patterns of neglect and criminal activity.
