Italy's electoral reform faces backlash over blocked lists and prime‑minister nomination clause

Italian senators and regional officials are debating a proposed electoral law reform promoted by the centre‑right. Senator Dario Parrini (PD) argued that the new rules, which include "blocked lists" and a disproportionate majority prize, would shift candidate selection from voters to party secretariats and marginalise regions such as Molise. Regional councillor Micaela Fanelli warned that Molise would lose institutional recognition under the draft.

In the Chamber’s Constitutional Affairs Committee, three majority‑backed amendments were approved to address constitutional concerns: one clarifies regional representation for Trentino‑Alto Adige and Valle d’Aosta, another defines multi‑district list structures, and a third affirms the President of the Republic’s prerogative despite a provision that would name the prime‑ministerial candidate on electoral programmes. Opposition members criticised the nomination clause as undermining the President’s role. The commission’s work is paused until early next week, with further votes expected before a June 26 deadline.

Critics across parties describe the "blocked lists" as a blow to democratic choice, arguing they concentrate power in party leadership and weaken the link between elected officials and constituents.