Defense attorneys in the Vatican’s landmark financial misconduct case demanded the removal of chief prosecutor Alessandro Diddi at the start of the appeals trial on Monday. The request stems from leaked WhatsApp messages suggesting Diddi’s possible involvement in shaping testimony. The messages, exchanged between key figures, including Vatican insiders and alleged intermediaries, have raised concerns about the impartiality of the prosecution.
WhatsApp Leaks Shake Foundations of Original Convictions
The messages indicate that Diddi may have had more extensive contact with figures involved in the investigation than previously acknowledged. In particular, they point to the influence of two women—Francesca Chaouqui and Genevieve Ciferri—who reportedly pressured Monsignor Alberto Perlasca to turn against Cardinal Angelo Becciu. The new evidence raises questions about the integrity of Perlasca’s testimony, which was central to the conviction of Becciu and eight others in 2023 for a failed €350 million London property investment.
Defense Alleges Evidence Tampering and Prosecutorial Bias
Defense lawyers argue that the chats show a “disturbing activity of evidence tampering” and direct or indirect involvement by investigators in conditioning Perlasca’s narrative. Audio recordings also suggest Vatican Police Commissioner Stefano De Santis gave advice through intermediaries on how Perlasca could implicate others. These revelations, the defense claims, undermine the credibility of the original trial and demand Diddi’s withdrawal from the appeal.
Prosecutor Denies Impropriety, Will Respond Within Days
Archbishop Alejandro Arellano Cedillo, president of the tribunal, accepted the defense motions and gave Diddi three days to respond. Diddi thanked the court and said he would take time to address the concerns calmly. He then exited the courtroom, and his deputies continued proceedings.
Broader Implications for Vatican Justice and Papal Involvement
The leaked communications have cast a shadow over the Vatican’s judicial independence. Pope Francis has been linked to decisions benefiting the prosecution, including removing Becciu’s voting rights in a future conclave. If Diddi refuses to recuse himself, the decision will go to the Vatican’s Court of Cassation, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Meanwhile, Chaouqui is under investigation for influence-peddling, further complicating the legal landscape.
Source:
Defense in Vatican ‘trial of the century’ asks prosecutor to recuse himself for questionable conduct
Photo by Dima Solomin on Unsplash
About Post Author
