Salvini rallies in Pinzolo: "This is the real Lega" but Fugatti is absent

Matteo Salvini projected an image of unwavering leadership at a rally in Pinzolo, Trentino, amidst a backdrop of significant internal party strife. Addressing supporters, the Lega secretary and deputy prime minister declared, "This is the Lega of Trentino," while attempting to dismiss criticism by stating, "I am busy working."

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This is the Lega of Trentino

However, the event was marked by notable absences, including Maurizio Fugatti, the influential president of the Trentino provincial government and the party's regional leader. Fugatti cited "personal commitments" for his absence, a move seen as a clear signal of the growing divisions within the Lega. Other regional figures also did not appear on stage, further underscoring Salvini's weakening grip.

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Criticism? You should ask those who criticize. I am busy working.

Salvini's holiday in the Val Rendena, a traditional retreat for him, is fraught with political tension. Reports suggest that key figures within the party, such as Fontana, Fedriga, and Zaia, are openly critical of his leadership. The fallout from the controversial Vannacci case and a call to "return to the Lega as a territorial union" are fueling dissent.

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I am for uniting, building, involving everyone who has ideas. Then of course, if someone excludes themselves...

With polling numbers indicating a significant drop in support, the Lega faces a potential loss of a substantial portion of its parliamentary representation. Some party members, like Gianna Gancia, have publicly stated that "the Lega as we understood it is dead and buried." The situation is further complicated by political maneuvering, such as a photo circulating of Francesca Gerosa from Fratelli d'Italia, who harbors ambitions to lead the center-right in Trentino, seated alongside Salvini.

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The Lega as we understood it is dead and buried years ago.