31 May 2018 | 12:58 AM UTC
Italy: 5-Star Movement leader calls for protest in Rome June 2
5-Star Movement leader Luigi di Maio calls for protests in Italian cities in the coming days, including in Rome on June 2; heightened security presence expected near protest sites
Event
On Monday, May 28, 5-Star Movement leader Luigi di Maio called for the party's supporters to stage protests in major Italian cities in the coming days, including in Rome on Saturday, June 2 (Republic Day). A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near protest sites.
Context
The announcement of the upcoming protests comes after Italian President Sergio Mattarella nominated former International Monetary Fund (IMF) official Carlo Cottarelli to become prime minister and create an interim government. On May 27, the 5-Star Movement reportedly failed to form a governing coalition with the far-right Northern League amid a political stalemate with Mattarella.
The anti-establishment 5-Star Movement gained the largest vote share in the March 4 elections, garnering 32 percent of all votes.
Advice
Individuals in Italy are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
