Grillo accuses Five Star Movement of abandoning Franciscan values over consultancy scandal

In a recent online post, Beppe Grillo reminded followers of the Franciscan values that originally inspired his political movement, emphasizing humility, poverty and care for the community. He attacked the Five Star Movement for supporting a 2021 Sardinian decree that introduced a large number of consultancy roles with salaries sometimes exceeding those of national legislators. Grillo argues the measure would cost the region at least six million euros, money he says should have gone to health services and family assistance.

He notes that the decree was not abolished and was instead used by its opponents, pointing to the published salaries on the regional website. Grillo also criticized the perception that the movement disregards these Franciscan principles, suggesting the issue reflects a broader departure from its founding ethos.