Calabria referendum: Tar rejects regional appeal against undersecretary vote

The Tar Calabria has declared the Calabria Region's appeal against the upcoming referendum on regional undersecretaries inadmissible due to a lack of jurisdiction. The court ruled that the dispute involves public subjective rights rather than the exercise of administrative powers, meaning jurisdiction lies with the ordinary judge rather than the administrative court.

The referendum, scheduled for November 29, 2026, concerns amendments to the regional statute that reintroduce the figure of two undersecretaries to the Presidency of the Giunta. While the ruling does not address the merits of the reform, it leaves the door open for the Region to re-file the action before the competent ordinary judge.

Political reactions have been sharp. Opposition leaders, including Senator Nicola Irto of the PD, have criticized President Roberto Occhiuto, accusing the regional administration of attempting to use legal maneuvers to bypass the citizens' right to vote on increasing political roles. Regional Councilor Filomena Greco has suggested several paths forward for the President, including proceeding with the vote, appealing to the Council of State, or returning the matter to the Regional Council for debate.