Italian Voters Reject Prime Minister Meloni's Ambitious Judicial Reform Plan in Referendum

Rome. Italian voters have overwhelmingly rejected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's ambitious judicial reform plan in a historic referendum held on March 22 and 23. The right-wing coalition government suffered a major political blow after 54 percent of voters cast their ballots against the government's proposal with a 'No' vote.

The failure of Meloni's attempt to amend the constitution and change the structure of the judiciary has brought excitement to the opposition camp. Immediately after the results were announced, Prime Minister Meloni stated that she respects the people's decision.

She expressed regret that Italy missed an opportunity to modernize but made it clear that she would not resign. The vote, which saw a high turnout of over 60 percent, exposed the deep conflict between the government and the judges. Notably, as the vote count results started coming in from Naples in Southern Italy, judges celebrated by chanting 'Bella Ciao'.

Opposition parties interpreted the result as a victory for democracy and the constitution. Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, leader of the Five Star Movement, expressed happiness, stating that the constitution had been defended.

According to analysts, this vote was not only focused on judicial reform but also reflected dissatisfaction with the Meloni government's four-year term. The public was also angry with Meloni's policies due to rising fuel prices caused by increasing tensions between the US and Israel with Iran.

Attempts to amend Italy's post-World War II constitution have repeatedly failed in the past. Meloni had argued for separating the careers of judges and public prosecutors and reducing political influence in the judicial body.

Reuters