Meloni suffers referendum setback on judicial reform

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has suffered a defeat in a referendum on judicial reform, with more than 54 per cent of voters rejecting the proposal, according to The Epoch Times. She conceded the result after the votes were counted.

'The Italians have made up their minds. And we respect that decision. But that does not change our determination to continue to work seriously and resolutely for the good of the nation and to fulfill the mandate that has been entrusted to us,' she said.

The reform had been one of the government's main projects since taking office in 2022. Supporters argued it would strengthen the independence of judges and prosecutors and improve the efficiency of the judicial system. Critics warned it could undermine prosecutorial independence and fail to address longstanding issues such as lengthy trials and overcrowded prisons.

Opposition leader Giuseppe Conte called on Meloni to resign, describing the result as a blow to the government. Political analysts said the outcome represented a significant loss in political standing for the Prime Minister, though it does not automatically point to defeat in the next elections, due in 2027.

The reform had already passed through parliament but required approval in a referendum to take effect. Turnout was around 59 per cent. Italy does not impose a quorum for constitutional referendums.

(max)