New questions have emerged over the pardon granted to Nicole Minetti, a figure widely known in Italy for her involvement in the so-called Ruby scandal linked to the late prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.
The case takes its name from Karima El Mahroug, the young woman at the centre of a 2010 investigation. Prosecutors uncovered a series of gatherings at Berlusconi’s residence in Arcore - dubbed “elegant dinners” - as well as a controversial phone call in which he requested that the then-minor be entrusted to Minetti. She was accused of playing a role in organising the events and coordinating participants. After years of legal proceedings, however, both Berlusconi and Minetti were ultimately acquitted.
Minetti is now back in the spotlight following an investigation by Il Fatto Quotidiano, which raises doubts about the accuracy of information provided in her clemency request, granted last February. In particular, questions concern the circumstances of a child she adopted who reportedly suffers from a serious illness, details that may have influenced the decision.
In response, the Quirinale has asked the Ministry of Justice for urgent clarification. Presidential sources stressed that the head of state has no independent investigative powers and relies on documentation and assessments provided by judicial authorities and the ministry.
The ministry stated that none of the negative elements reported in the press appear in the official case file. However, the Milan prosecutor’s office has requested authorization to carry out further investigations, including abroad, in light of the new claims.
Minetti has firmly denied the allegations, calling them “groundless and seriously damaging,” and has announced legal action against the journalists and the newspaper involved.