Italy holds high-stakes justice referendum under scrutiny of Prime Minister Meloni

Italian Citizens to Vote on Judicial Reform Referendum

A two-day referendum is set to take place in Italy, with citizens voting on proposed reforms to the country’s judicial system. The referendum, which will be held on Sunday and Monday, aims to separate the roles of judges and prosecutors and reform their oversight body.

According to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the plan is intended to improve the functioning of Italy’s justice system by guaranteeing impartiality and increasing its autonomy. However, critics argue that the reforms will have the opposite effect, failing to address real challenges such as lengthy trials and prison overcrowding.

The proposed changes involve dividing the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM) into two councils, one for judges and one for prosecutors, and creating a 15-member disciplinary court. The new court would be composed of members drawn by lot, rather than being elected by their peers or voted on by parliament.

Polls indicate that the outcome of the referendum is uncertain, with opinion polls showing the two sides neck and neck. A decisive “no” vote could have significant implications for Meloni’s government, which has been led by a stable coalition since October 2022. However, Meloni has dismissed suggestions that she may quit if she loses.

The referendum marks an important test of Meloni’s leadership, with parliamentary elections scheduled for next year. Analysts note that the outcome could have significant implications for her political future and the country’s politics as a whole.

Source: Al Jazeera