Asger Risom
An unusual act of dissent highlights growing political tensions ahead of Italy’s June referendums.
The Italian Parliament witnessed an unexpected spectacle this week when an opposition lawmaker took a theatrical stand against the government.
Clad in a white sheet with cut-out eyeholes and the word “Referendum” emblazoned across it, the protester disrupted proceedings to draw attention to what he claims are attempts to stifle democratic participation.
Ghostly Protest Sparks Controversy
Riccardo Magi, a member of the opposition party +Europa, donned the ghost outfit during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, as reported by 20minutos.
Magi shouted from his seat to protest what his party claims are government efforts to discourage voter turnout for five national referendums scheduled for June 8 and 9.
The referendums cover contentious issues including revisions to Italy’s citizenship requirements for foreigners and the repeal of certain provisions from the 2015 labor reform. Magi has accused Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right government of deliberately promoting abstention to avoid public scrutiny.
Immediate Expulsion and Heated Reactions
As Meloni faced questions during a routine parliamentary session, the demonstration was quickly halted. Lorenzo Fontana, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, ordered Magi’s expulsion. Parliamentary ushers escorted him out while five security officials restrained him.
The protest took place as far-right League party member Riccardo Molinari was outlining the government coalition’s security policies.
Molinari rebuked Magi, stating, “He did this while we were discussing security forces. It clearly shows who respects them and who does not.”
The unusual protest underscores the escalating political friction ahead of Italy’s referendums, which could significantly alter laws impacting citizenship and labor rights.