Understand
Italy approves contentious elections overhaul as opposition accuses Meloni of pushing through a 'scam' law
Overview
Italy's parliament has approved major changes to the country's electoral system championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni ahead of elections due next year. Lawmakers voted 227 to 164 in favour of the reform, which shifts the voting system and awards additional seats to the party or coalition winning the largest share of votes above 42%. While Meloni argued the changes will provide stability and clear winners, opposition parties condemned the move as a fraudulent scheme designed to keep her right-wing coalition in power.
Key points
- Italy's parliament approved a fiercely contested electoral reform by a vote of 227 to 164.
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni argued the changes will boost government stability and clear winners.
- Opposition parties accused the government of pushing through a 'fraudulent' and 'scam' law to retain power.
- The new rules award 105 additional parliamentary seats to any party or coalition securing the largest share of votes above 42%.
- Meloni had previously warned she could resign and trigger early elections if the proposals were rejected.
- Opposition leaders, including Elly Schlein and Giuseppe Conte, strongly criticised the legislation during heated parliamentary debates.