Italy Approves Electoral Overhaul as Opposition Accuses Meloni of Unfair Changes

Italy’s Chamber of Deputies gave final parliamentary approval to an electoral overhaul on October 8, backing the measure by 227 votes to 164 in a secret ballot.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ruling coalition supported the changes, while opposition lawmakers protested the result.

How the Voting System Changes

The reform replaces Italy’s mixed electoral system, which combines constituency contests and proportional representation, with a proportional system featuring bonus parliamentary seats.

The winning coalition qualifies for the additional seats if it reaches at least 42% of the vote.

Government Defends the Reform

The governing alliance says the changes will help elections produce clearer winners and more stable administrations.

Opposition Alleges Electoral Advantage

Opposition parties described the measure as a “scam law,” alleging that the ruling coalition changed the rules to improve its chances in the next general election.

These accusations remain the opposition’s assessment, rather than an established finding of electoral wrongdoing.