In her push for a 'yes' vote in this weekend's constitutional referendum, Italy's prime minister has been reaching for new audiences. On Thursday, Giorgia Meloni sat at the mic between a popular rapper and a personal trainer-turned-podcaster to urge Italians to vote for a judicial system she promised would be 'more just' for all. Opposition parties have been busy too, styling the 'historic' reform proposed by the right-wing government as a threat to democracy, turning it into a protest vote against Meloni's rule.
In power for three-and-a-half years, close to a record in a land of shaky coalitions, Meloni prides herself on bringing stability to Italy. But as this referendum has become increasingly personalized, she could be facing her first significant defeat. Political scientist Roberto D'Alimonte of Luiss University explains, 'She wants to win. If she loses, there will be an impact and she understands that.' He adds that Meloni needs to mobilize her voters for a better chance to win this race.
That's why the prime minister joined rapper Fedez and Mr. Marra on their podcast, Pulp, in an attempt to connect with younger voters ahead of the referendum.
The reform, which is meant to separate the careers of judges and prosecutors, has faced skepticism as it is viewed as an attempt by Meloni to consolidate power. This referendum is the first significant constitutional change proposed by a far-right government since Italy’s constitution was written after World War II.
Amidst fears from opponents that this reform could undermine judicial independence, Meloni countered by urging voters not to use the referendum as an opportunity to express discontent with her government. 'If you vote 'no' today just to send Meloni home, you'll find yourself keeping both Meloni and a justice system that doesn't work,' she stated vehemently.
With rising inflation and discontent concerning the government's handling of international issues, observers predict that Meloni could suffer a set-back that may undermine the stability her administration has touted. Nonetheless, she has made it clear that, regardless of the outcome, she intends to remain in power.
In power for three-and-a-half years, close to a record in a land of shaky coalitions, Meloni prides herself on bringing stability to Italy. But as this referendum has become increasingly personalized, she could be facing her first significant defeat. Political scientist Roberto D'Alimonte of Luiss University explains, 'She wants to win. If she loses, there will be an impact and she understands that.' He adds that Meloni needs to mobilize her voters for a better chance to win this race.
That's why the prime minister joined rapper Fedez and Mr. Marra on their podcast, Pulp, in an attempt to connect with younger voters ahead of the referendum.
The reform, which is meant to separate the careers of judges and prosecutors, has faced skepticism as it is viewed as an attempt by Meloni to consolidate power. This referendum is the first significant constitutional change proposed by a far-right government since Italy’s constitution was written after World War II.
Amidst fears from opponents that this reform could undermine judicial independence, Meloni countered by urging voters not to use the referendum as an opportunity to express discontent with her government. 'If you vote 'no' today just to send Meloni home, you'll find yourself keeping both Meloni and a justice system that doesn't work,' she stated vehemently.
With rising inflation and discontent concerning the government's handling of international issues, observers predict that Meloni could suffer a set-back that may undermine the stability her administration has touted. Nonetheless, she has made it clear that, regardless of the outcome, she intends to remain in power.
