Former Italian premier Conte defends pandemic record at parliamentary inquiry

Former Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte defended his government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic during a parliamentary inquiry commission hearing in Rome. The Five Star Movement leader declared that "da me nessun illecito" occurred under his administration, insisting emergency decrees protected public health.

During over three hours of testimony, Conte disclosed that he submitted an anonymous document to Rome prosecutors regarding a 100-million-euro mask procurement deal with JC Electronics, urging authorities to examine suspected counterfeit gear. Firmly rejecting criticisms from the governing coalition, Conte cautioned lawmakers against acting as "plotoni di esecuzione." The parliamentary commission is examining emergency decree laws, vaccine purchasing, and procurement during the health crisis.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica.