Former president and longtime leader of Forza Italia, Silvio Berlusconi, voiced that he was puzzled by Mario Draghi’s decision and stressed that it would ultimately be the economist who charted the path to elections rather than any unilateral political move. He noted that the bloc of supporters had resisted accepting a fresh Executive offer that required a five-star push from the M5S, signaling a preference for a broader, more coherent assembly before any reshuffling. Source: Il Giornale.
In an interview published today, Berlusconi described how a government pact had been pursued, yet Draghi chose the electoral route instead. He explained that there were persistent efforts to craft a Draghi-led government deal built on unity, continuity, and credible backing. Yet the prime minister opted for a different course, a choice that Berlusconi believes warrants scrutiny and discussion. He asserted that his side was willing to maintain support and even pay a political price to keep the government on a steady path. Source: Il Giornale.
He added that the ongoing willingness to back the administration remained strong, arguing that the decision to move toward elections did not stem from a lack of trust but from a strategic calculation about the country’s immediate needs. Berlusconi suggested that the wait-and-see approach had its merits and that a longer confirmation period might have kept a brittle coalition intact, but ultimately the elected route prevailed. Source: Il Giornale.
“We did not deny the government’s trust. I did not expect it to end like this”, Berlusconi stated, reflecting on the turn of events and the sense of surprise among coalition partners. The remarks underscored a belief that a different outcome might have been possible with more time and clearer concessions, even as political realities pushed the process into an electoral phase. Source: Il Giornale.
Italy is slated to hold early general elections on September 25 as a solution to the crisis surrounding the national unity government led by Draghi, who resigned after key partners withdrew their support. The withdrawal of three major coalition members—M5S, the League, and Forza Italia—left the government without a viable path to a confidence vote, prompting constitutional steps toward dissolution and a broader political recalibration. Source: Il Giornale.
President Sergio Mattarella announced the dissolution of Parliament, a move reflecting constitutional mechanisms designed to recalibrate leadership and authorize fresh electoral mandates. Elected in March of 2018, Mattarella acted eight months ahead of schedule, signaling a critical moment in Italy’s political calendar as parties prepared for a renewed parliamentary mandate. Source: Il Giornale.
Berlusconi emphasized that the election was not an act of religious blasphemy but a necessary democratic step, acknowledging that the political moment was delicate. He argued that sovereignty rests with the people, and empowering that voice remains the essential legitimacy of the democratic process, especially during a period of national challenge. Source: Il Giornale.
Berlusconi closed by reiterating confidence in a stable right-wing alignment, noting partnerships with Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy and Matteo Salvini’s League. He asserted that the alliance could offer credibility and stability to the country, providing a stronger platform for governance and reform across the board. Source: Il Giornale.