Italian journalist uses Internet to defy ban on political shows

It was also shown on giant screens erected in 200 Italian towns and cities, including Rome and Naples, Italian media reported.
The unconventional broadcast came after Rai public television suspended its political programming ahead of the elections, saying it did not want to be seen favouring any one party but sparking accusations of stifling political debate.
The evening was hosted by Michele Santoro, who normally hosts the AnnoZero political talk show. Media magnate Berlusconi, 73, is currently under investigation for allegedly trying to gag it.
The show started with archive footage of former fascist dictator Benito Mussolini speaking, followed by images of a Berlusconi speech.
Afterwards, Berlusconi limited his comments on the programme to saying that "I should be very severe."
Political journalists as well as singers and "Life is Beautiful" star and director Roberto Benigni took part in the show.
Santoro made an appeal to respected President Giorgio Napolitano, saying that "we haven't yet reached fascism, but certain similarities could be a cause for concern."
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