The opposition parties have come together to organize a protest for the first time, aiming to show unity against recent government actions. However, they did not take the opportunity for a symbolic photo, perhaps due to past instances where such images have brought bad luck. There is a sense that true unity has not yet been achieved, but this marks an important first step. The day is marked by significant events in Parliament, with the Senate approving the Premiership and the Chamber of Deputies advancing autonomy measures. In Rome, various parties such as the Democratic Party, Five Star Movement, Green-Left Alliance, and More Europe come together with slogans like “United we can defeat this right-wing” and “we will stop these reforms.”
The focus of the protest is the opposition to two controversial reforms that are moving quickly through Parliament. Calls for unity among the opposition forces are heard, stressing the importance of coming together to prevent the potential changes to the constitution. Leaders like Elly Schlein emphasize the need to set aside differences and stand united against these reforms. The protest is seen as a crucial moment in Italian and European history, with a determination to halt the progress of these changes. The organizers stress that this is not just a one-time event but a permanent mobilization effort, with plans for future larger protests and continued opposition.
The presence of various political figures from different parties adds to the diversity of the protest, with even those less supportive of the main organizers showing their support against the proposed reforms. Governor Vincenzo De Luca, who has not always been aligned with the Democratic Party, is among those present. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte addresses the crowd, emphasizing their position in the progressive camp and their united front against these reforms. The leaders on stage denounce the proposed changes, with strong statements against the Premierato and differentiated autonomy, vowing not to let them pass. Calls for a referendum and appeals to the citizens to join the fight for the protection of the Constitution and Italy’s anti-fascist values are heard from the stage.
The concerns over the Premierato reform have sparked a response from constitutional experts and jurists, with 180 of them endorsing the words of Liliana Segre during the Senate debate on the reform. Their appeal is read by actress Monica Guerritore at the protest, indicating a broader level of support and engagement in the debate over these proposed changes. The protest reflects a deep-seated worry about the potential impact of these reforms on the Italian democratic system and the values enshrined in the Constitution. Despite the challenges ahead, the opposition forces remain determined to stand together against these perceived threats to the fundamental principles of Italian governance.
