The first of two individual motions of no confidence, towards Matteo Salvini, was rejected by the Italian Chamber of Deputies, with a majority showing their support through 211 votes out of 343 present. The debate in parliament was a skirmish between the majority and the opposition, although the outcome was predictable. Despite tensions between Fratelli d’Italia and Lega following the European elections, the rejection of the no-confidence motion against the leader of Lega was primarily a defense of the government against attempts by the opposition to weaken the relationship between the two parties. The motion was based on the agreement signed in 2017 between Lega and Putin’s party, Russia Unita, which Lega argued had ended when Putin chose to invade Ukraine. The opposition demands an official statement from Minister Salvini regarding the agreement, as well as contesting his remarks following Putin’s re-election that appeared to validate the election despite allegations of political pressure and violence.
Salvini, in an interview with Libero, defended his relationship with Russia by stating that he had respected Putin as a statesman until the invasion of Ukraine. Although the motion was rejected, tensions surrounding the relationship between Lega and Fratelli d’Italia have not subsided. In the same interview, Salvini emphasized his commitment to Ukraine and leading Europe with Lega, raising questions about cooperation with other European leaders. The discussion intertwines with Giorgia Meloni’s alleged affinity towards Ursula von der Leyen, suggesting a potential new leader for a different majority, which may appeal to Salvini due to his previous governance. The focus also shifts towards the issue of the premiership, with Lega supporting direct election of the Prime Minister but acknowledging the need for an electoral law ensuring parliamentary majority for the elected premier.
The debate within the Italian political landscape also addresses the necessity of a new electoral law for prime ministerial stability. The Lega party, notably through Senator Paolo Tosato, underscores the importance of ensuring that the prime minister elected by the people has parliamentary support, indicating potential improvements to the existing legislation. Fratelli d’Italia aims to avoid any delays or complications in the process, understanding that Lega acknowledges the unresolved issue of electoral reform as crucial for strengthening the premier’s position while ensuring government functionality. Salvini, with the support of electoral law specialist Roberto Calderoli, is well aware of the significance of influencing decision-making in this arena to secure a stable governmental framework. The strategic discussions and negotiations within the Italian political realm highlight the complexities and interdependencies between parties, electoral processes, and government stability.
