Italy's electoral reform passes parliament amid division and constitutional concerns

Italy's Chamber of Deputies has approved a controversial electoral reform bill, narrowly averting a government crisis. The vote, which saw 217 in favor and 152 against, was a predictable outcome after a previous rejection, as a further failure could have triggered the government's collapse.

However, the approval has been met with triumphalism from the majority and alarmist reactions from the opposition, both deemed disproportionate by observers. The reform is expected to lead to further political maneuvering and potential institutional friction, particularly with the Constitutional Court. The court may review the law's constitutionality, specifically concerning the large seat bonus for coalitions reaching 42% of the vote and the provision allowing the prime minister to be named on the ballot.

The government of Giorgia Meloni appears to be disregarding these potential constitutional issues, banking on the lengthy process of any judicial review. Even the Lega party, which advocates for regional autonomy, is reportedly attempting to circumvent existing court rulings. This complex web of complications is seen as unsustainable in the long term, but is being set aside in favor of an unyielding political agenda.

The reform's framing as a means to restore legitimacy to "governments elected by the people" is also questioned, implying that the current government, led by Meloni since 2022, has an "original sin." Critics argue that changing the electoral system under these circumstances fuels accusations that the ruling coalition fears losing power. While the current law has flaws and needs modification, the celebratory tone surrounding the approved reform is met with skepticism, especially given the absence of preferential voting, which the government had previously claimed was crucial for citizen engagement.