Italian President Sergio Mattarella did not accept the resignation of Prime Minister Mario Draghi, international media reported.
Specifically, according to Reuters, Mattarelli asked Draghi to speak to parliament in order to get a “clear picture” of the political situation.
Shortly before that, the Italian prime minister announced his intention to leave his post. Draghi cited the refusal of the “Five Star Movement” – one of the parties in the ruling coalition – to participate in the Senate’s vote of confidence in the government. With this they formally marked their departure from the parliamentary majority.
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According to Draghi, the part of national unity that has supported the government since its creation no longer exists. It makes no sense to form a coalition with ultimatums, the prime minister believes.
Earlier on Thursday, a vote was held in the Italian Senate – the upper house of parliament – in which MPs confirmed the confidence of the government under Draghi. 172 senators voted “for” the vote of confidence, 39 against. The “Five Star Movement” did not participate in the vote.
Draghi headed the Italian cabinet last February.
source: radio svoboda
