The controversial candidacy of General Roberto Vannacci for the upcoming European elections in June continues to spark debates and political discussions, with clashes occurring in some cases. In Naples, a group of young protestors clashed with police forces in riot gear in opposition to the presence of the independent candidate for the Lega party. The protestors attempted to breach the police cordon protecting the area where Vannacci was scheduled to present his book, throwing water balloons and striking the officers’ riot shields with flagpoles. The police responded with batons, but no injuries were reported. The two groups faced off on Via Nazario Sauro.
The group of approximately 30 young protestors started their march from Piazza del Plebiscito towards a theatre on the Naples waterfront where the candidate was scheduled to appear. They carried a banner with the phrase “Naples doesn’t want you, Vannacci, get used to it.” One protestor held a Palestinian flag, while others displayed a photo of the general with his eyes covered by the slogan “Kick him out.” Speaking to journalists, Vannacci addressed the controversies surrounding his candidacy, which has faced opposition from some Lega party leaders. He emphasized his background as a military special forces operative, stating that he is used to operating independently behind enemy lines. However, he reassured that he would not act recklessly.
Meanwhile, Luca Zaia, the governor of Veneto, expressed his opinion on Vannacci’s candidacy in the North-East region, where Zaia believes that he is a candidate. Zaia clarified that he would not be voting for Vannacci and disagreed with some of his statements, particularly regarding proposals for separate classes for disabled individuals and his views on Mussolini as a statesman. Zaia noted that Vannacci is an independent candidate and not officially affiliated with the Lega party. He emphasized his loyalty to fellow Venetians and suggested that he would feel like a traitor if he did not vote for a Veneto candidate like himself, highlighting Vannacci’s origins from Liguria and upbringing in Romagna.
Addressing the internal debates within the Lega party, Vannacci stressed that he is an independent candidate with values and principles aligned with those of the Lega party, particularly concerning issues of national identity, family, and security. He reiterated his commitment to promoting these values through his candidacy, despite the disagreements within the party leadership. Vannacci emphasized his military experience as a special forces operative, highlighting his ability to act independently and his dedication to upholding the principles important to both himself and the Lega party. The clashes and controversies surrounding Vannacci’s candidacy continue to generate discussion and opposition from various sectors of the political spectrum as the European elections approach in June.
