Pellegrino criticizes Decaro: "Bari-centric politics, Salento handed to the center-right. I side with those who have a stomach ache"

Giovanni Pellegrino, a respected figure in the Italian left and former senator, has voiced strong criticism against the regional president, Antonio Decaro. Pellegrino argues that Decaro's leadership is overly focused on Bari, neglecting other areas of Puglia, particularly the Salento region. This perceived "Bari-centric" approach, Pellegrino contends, has led to the loss of municipalities like Gallipoli to the center-right in recent elections. He points to specific instances, such as the health commissioner being unaware of key appointments, as evidence of Decaro's failure to adequately involve his team and regional allies. Pellegrino believes this solitary leadership style risks alienating the party's base and handing electoral advantages to opponents. He recalls his own political experience, where he managed to counter a strong center-right presence in Lecce, suggesting that Decaro's current strategy is weakening the party's position in southern Puglia. The criticism highlights internal tensions within the ruling coalition, with Pellegrino expressing personal disappointment over the potential fragmentation of Puglia's political landscape.

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That they are right. In my opinion, the regional president has many merits and a very strong legitimacy coming from the last two electoral results. However, that he sacrifices even the involvement of the members of the junta for this seems serious to me.