A tough crisis for Italy.

Italy has seen dozens of governments since the end of World War II, so it's very used to political crises but the tumult now roiling its political parties is playing out differently as Premier Mario Draghi's fate, as the nation's leader, hangs in balance. Draghi has offered to resign after a coalition partner, the populist 5-Star Movement, boycotted an important senate vote.

An Unusual Coalition

President Sergio Mattarella tapped Draghi to form a national unity government in Feb 2021 to help revive Italy's pandemic-battered economy.

Draghi took the helm of the premiership from Giuseppe Conte, the 5-Star who chafed at losing his post as he struggled to get Italy's Covid-19 vaccination program running smoothly.

Draghi leads an unusual coalition, of often-squabbling rivals, including parties on the right, center and left, as well as the 5-Stars.

The Showdown

Mattarella has invited Draghi to go before Parliament to explain why he wants to resign. While other coalition parties are expected to press Draghi to stay, the 5-Stars have been spatting over what to do. Draghi has said he won't govern without the populists in his coalition.

Voice of Europe

The crisis comes at a particularly crucial time - for Italy and Europe. High inflation and skyrocketing energy costs are punishing consumers and industry.

Draghi has positioned himself as one of the loyal backers of military and other aid from Europe for Ukraine, as that country defends itself from the war.

With political crisis in Britain and France and the absence of longtime German leader Angela Merkel, Draghi has established himself as a reliable voice of Europe.

If Draghi Exits, What's Next?

The outcome of the debate in the legislature will help determine if Draghi will stay in office. If he resigns, Mattarella could ask someone else to try to form a government but Draghi's is already the third government since the election to Parliament in 2018.

More likely, the president will dissolve Parliament, triggering early elections as soon as late September. Such a move would likely be in the interests of the far-right. EU-skeptic Brothers of Italy, which opinion polls indicate could be the top vote-getter, propelling its leader Giorgia Meloni into the premier's office.

Courtesy. The NIE

My take

The brood of politicians in every country can be painted with the same brush. Self-centred and ambitious, they are least bothered about their country's interests! Sad!!

Tailpiece.

Got up at 6, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 9. Madhu, Sudha, Venugopal and Saloni had dropped by and spent time with us.

A quiet day, otherwise.

Deliveries by Harisree Supermarket and the vegetable shop vendor after teatime.