The Italian government could fail in a confidence vote this Thursday. The Five Star Movement, which is part of Prime Minister Mario Draghi’s coalition, announced late on Wednesday evening that it would not take part in the Senate vote. The vote is about an economic stimulus package for companies and households that are affected by high energy prices.
Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte told reporters the government should do more to tackle societal problems. The country is facing an unprecedented economic and social challenge and the government has not listened to its five stars’ demands. “We are absolutely ready for dialogue in order to make our constructive contribution to the government and to Draghi,” said Conte, “but we are not prepared to issue a blank check.”
The reversal of the Five Stars, who only voted for government on Monday in the House of Commons, could plunge Italy into a period of instability as the country grapples with an energy crisis, a drought and rising borrowing costs for its huge debt. The move also threatens Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine, as Conte criticizes the arms shipments and instead urges opening negotiations with Russia.
Other parties had previously announced their exit from the government should the Five Stars leave the coalition. Prime Minister Draghi himself recently announced his resignation in this case. For months he has been under pressure from several parties in his broad alliance, who are demanding that reforms be softened and, in some cases, a cabinet reshuffle. The head of the right-wing Lega, Matteo Salvini, stressed that an early election was the best solution.
A statement Draghis was initially not available. He called on the parties to stop issuing ultimatums and to support his government. Since February 2021, Draghi has led the governing coalition, which ranges from the left to the far right, as an independent. A new parliament will be elected in Italy in the first half of next year. New elections could be brought forward to the autumn. This would be unusual, however, because this is the time when the budget, which has to be approved by the end of the year, is traditionally prepared.