Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and League leader Matteo Salvini has called for an extraordinary party congress in October, as he faces internal criticism and declining support. Salvini announced the move at the League’s annual rally in Pontida, saying the party needed to remain united.
The League has faced pressure from figures advocating a renewed focus on its traditional northern roots. Lombardy Governor Attilio Fontana said on Monday that internal members would continue to present their views at the congress. The party has yet to clarify whether Salvini’s leadership itself will be put to a vote or whether members will only decide on the party’s political direction.
Italy is scheduled to hold national elections in the second half of 2027. Reuters reported that analysts see the decision to hold an early congress as an effort to strengthen Salvini’s position ahead of the election, while also noting that it has prompted speculation about whether the country could face an earlier vote.
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