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Salvini warns Lega 'underminers' as he seeks party unity
๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Italy /Elections & Politics

Salvini warns Lega 'underminers' as he seeks party unity

From Corriere della Sera · () Italian

Translated from Italian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Lega Secretary Matteo Salvini expressed his intention to unite and involve all valuable members of the party.
  • He stated that those who "undo" rather than contribute will exclude themselves, implying internal dissenters.
  • Salvini also addressed political strategy, advocating for a sovereign stance against the European Union and expressing confidence in the center-right coalition's ability to win future elections.

Matteo Salvini, the secretary of Italy's Lega party, declared his commitment to unifying the party, stating his intention "to unite, build, and involve everyone who adds value, without excluding anyone." Speaking at a well-attended rally in Pinzolo, Salvini appeared optimistic, downplaying media reports of internal tensions. He emphasized his willingness to share responsibilities and strengthen the team by involving governors, ministers, and mayors.

My intention is to unite, build, and involve all those who add value, without excluding anyone.

โ€” Matteo SalviniLega Secretary Matteo Salvini outlining his vision for the party.

However, Salvini issued a subtle warning, noting that "the only ones who exclude themselves are those who, instead of doing, undo." Close associates interpreted this as a jab at prominent figures like Attilio Fontana, the Lombardy governor, and Massimiliano Romeo, the Senate group leader, who have been critical of the party's direction. These individuals have reportedly requested a meeting with Salvini.

The only ones who exclude themselves are those who instead of doing, undo.

โ€” Matteo SalviniSalvini's warning to internal party critics.

Addressing concerns about the party's political line, Salvini defended a sovereignist stance against the European Union, arguing that Brussels is infringing on citizens' rights to work, health, and their children's future. He contrasted this with a perceived push towards war by some European factions. Salvini also expressed a desire for Marine Le Pen, rather than Emmanuel Macron, to lead peace efforts.

The problem is in Brussels where they are expropriating us of the right to work, health, and the future of our children.

โ€” Matteo SalviniSalvini's critique of the European Union's policies.

Looking ahead to potential elections, Salvini voiced confidence in the current center-right coalition, stating they could win again. He dismissed the idea of forming broader alliances solely for electoral gain, asserting, "I am not willing to bring everyone in just to get an extra vote." He also mocked the center-left opposition, suggesting their divisions would lead to a Lega victory.

I am not willing to bring everyone in just to get an extra vote.

โ€” Matteo SalviniSalvini's stance on electoral alliances.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Corriere della Sera in Italian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.