On 30 June 2026, the Preliminary Hearing Judge of Cagliari ordered the committal for trial of the Rector of the University of Sassari, Prof. Gavino Mariotti, in connection with the “Monte Nuovo” investigation, on charges of criminal association aggravated by mafia-related circumstances. The Rector maintains his innocence — and he is fully entitled to the presumption of innocence until a final judgment — yet to date, he has not resigned and remains at the head of the University (his term expires in December 2026).

We believe that,  as a matter of ethics and institutional responsibility, distinct from the criminal dimension, given the nature and gravity of the charge, Rector Mariotti should resign.  And,  if he does not,   the Academic Senate should exercise its power to remove him.  Sign the petition if you agree with us.