Italian towns protest hospital services and cherry tree plans

In Gela, supporters of the local football club displayed a banner at the entrance of Vittorio Emanuele Hospital, joining a sit‑in that began on the fourth day. Mayor Terenziano Di Stefano praised the fans, saying the protest concerns the community’s right to health. He wrote on social media, "Un grazie di cuore ai tifosi del Gela Calcio… una causa che appartiene a tutta la comunità."

In Biella, activists led by Veronica Del Bianco organized a march demanding a consultative referendum to protect the city’s cherry trees in the Zumaglini Gardens and to keep the market in its current location. They urged mayor Marzio Olivero to respect residents’ wishes, stating, "La città è dei biellesi, non del sindaco," and warned against wasting public funds on unnecessary projects.