New electoral law approved: Parliament introduces the Melonellum

The Italian Parliament has definitively approved the new electoral law, known as the Melonellum, with 227 votes in favor and 164 against. The reform puts an end to the previous Rosatellum system and introduces a series of significant changes to the electoral process.

According to the provisions of the law, the system will remain essentially proportional but will include a majority prize for coalitions that exceed a threshold of 42%. Below this limit, the system will become purely proportional. The law also reinstates the option for voters to express preferences.

A significant aspect of the reform is the requirement for coalitions to indicate their candidate for prime minister, although the name will not appear on the ballot. The lead candidates will remain locked, creating a mix of preferences and controls in the candidacies.

Opponents of the law have expressed concerns regarding the presence of contradictions and potential constitutional violations. There are already plans for appeals from the opposition, which is preparing to challenge its legitimacy before the Constitutional Court.

Many view the Melonellum as a response from the majority led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to the needs of governability, while others raise doubts about the law's impact on political representation, especially regarding women's participation.

Finally, the law also stipulates that those studying, working, or caring for a family member will be able to vote in the municipality where they are located, broadening access to voting. The next steps now lie with the Constitutional Court, with further developments expected regarding the assessment of the reform's legitimacy.