27 Oct 2017 | 04:05 AM UTC
Italy: New electoral system approved October 26
The Senate approves a new electoral system on October 26; 5-Star Movement likely to protest in Rome
Event
Italy’s Senate approved a new electoral system on Thursday, October 26, that will benefit parties that that form pre-election coalitions. Unlike mainstream political parties, the 5-Star Movement (M5S) has disavowed forming coalitions and will likely suffer in the polls under the new system. President Sergio Mattarella is expected to approve the law in the coming days.
Political protests in support of M5S are likely in Rome in the days leading up to Mattarella’s signing of the law.
Context
Under the new system, multi-party coalitions would be allowed to form prior to the vote. M5S, which refuses to join in alliances, believes that it would be penalized under the new rules and claims that it is undemocratic. Major parties from both the right and the left support the bill. The next election is due to take place by May 2018.
M5S was founded in 2009 as a populist, anti-establishment movement by comedian Beppe Grillo.
Advice
Individuals present in Rome are advised to avoid all protests and monitor developments to the situation.
