Valditara: 'Enough internal polemics, they damage everyone's work. We are the party of the territories.'

Giuseppe Valditara, Italy's Minister of Education and Merit, has called for an end to internal party squabbles within the Lega, arguing that such disputes undermine the collective efforts of its members. Valditara, speaking after weeks of heated discussions, stressed the need for the party to move past divisions, particularly those perceived between the North and South, and between different factions. "Enough polemics, they damage everyone's work," Valditara stated, emphasizing that ministers, regional presidents, and mayors within the Lega have been diligently working. He expressed concern that internal controversies could overshadow these accomplishments. To counter this, he announced the establishment of a steering committee aimed at enhancing the party's focus on territorial representation, which he sees as a core and successful tenet of the Lega's identity. Valditara defended the steering committee against criticisms that it is merely a superficial change, calling it a reaffirmation of the Lega's authentic spirit as a party of the territories. He highlighted that the committee will involve and empower regional leaders and local administrators, who he believes embody the party's strength in governing communities. He pointed to significant policy initiatives, such as the housing plan, increased school staff salaries, and free health insurance for workers, as evidence of the party's commitment to the well-being of Italians and sound financial management. Rejecting the notion of separate Northern and Southern Lega branches, Valditara advocated for a unified party focused on building a strong, proud Italy. He stated that a fragmented Lega would lack purpose, contrasting it with the Bavarian CSU's distinct but allied role within Germany. The minister insisted that the party's strength lies in its unity, with the steering committee designed to transform internal differences into opportunities. He concluded by asserting that the Lega is achieving undeniable results for the country, citing the recovery of 500,000 young people from difficult situations between 2023 and 2025 as a key example.