Rocca resigns from CRI, 'at the disposal of the territory'

(ANSA) - ROME, DECEMBER 19 - "I have decided to submit my resignation from the position of National President of the Italian Red Cross because I have chosen to place myself at the disposal of the territory. As a public health expert, I think I can bring added value: I have accepted a new challenge in which I strongly believe".

So the President of the Italian Red Cross Francesco Rocca announces his resignation on the CRI website.

   Rocca is in pole position to be a candidate for the center-right in the Lazio Region.

"I wanted to step away from my role immediately to avoid any possible exploitation and to protect our Association and all of you. At the same time, I will guarantee an orderly transition with the national Vice-President, Rosario Valastro, who will be the acting President until the next elections which will be held, as per the Statute, in the first months of 2023" , Rocca writes again in the letter published on the CRI website.

"I know that some will not be happy with this decision, but life is made of crossroads and when an unforgettable journey would have come to an end anyway, I wanted to take a new path where, however, my abilities can still be at the service of the community. I want to make a solemn promise:

   Instead, I will always remain a CRI volunteer who will firmly adhere to the Principles, taking them with me to the institutions.

The teachings of these years will remain: in fact, I will not cease to support and give voice, wherever I am, to the most fragile.

It's a difficult day, but it doesn't taste like a goodbye, nor will it ever.

   Long live the Italian Red Cross!" concludes Rocca. (ANSA).