
Italy is voting Sunday on a constitutional referendum that could increase political stability or topple Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, triggering a government crisis with risky consequences.
The referendum is essentially about proposals to concentrate power in the government's hands, by curtailing veto rights of parliament and regions. Supporters say this would make Italy more stable, while critics see it as undemocratic.
The referendum is also a plebiscite on Renzi, because he has pledged to go if the reforms he has championed are rejected. With his popularity waning amid a sluggish economy and an enduring migration crisis, he faces a tough battle.
A 'no' victory, championed by all opposition parties, would likely be seen as another anti-establishment choice by Western voters, after Britain's Brexit referendum and Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential elections.
More than 46 million people are eligible to vote Sunday, and a further 4 million Italian expats were allowed to make their choices via postal ballot procedures that ended Thursday. In a possibly tight race, votes cast abroad could be decisive.
Polls are open from 7 am to 11 pm (0600-2200 GMT), and there is no minimum turnout threshold to validate the vote.
Counting is set to start immediately, and results should be announced early Monday.
Source: QNA
GMT 15:34 2018 Friday ,14 December
Moscow ready for Putin-Trump meetingGMT 13:40 2018 Friday ,14 December
Britain and EU should prepare for second Brexit referendumGMT 11:43 2018 Friday ,14 December
Kosovo to build an army amid tensions with SerbiaGMT 11:52 2018 Thursday ,13 December
Britain's May to appeal to EU for help to salvage Brexit dealGMT 10:28 2018 Wednesday ,12 December
Huawei Executive Gets Bail In Case Rattling China TiesGMT 09:01 2018 Tuesday ,11 December
US marines missing after aircraft collision off Japan confirmed deadGMT 08:55 2018 Monday ,10 December
Top EU court to issue decision on reversal of BrexitGMT 08:37 2018 Monday ,10 December
Peruvians vote for anti-corruption reforms
Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2025 ©
Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2025 ©
Send your comments
Your comment as a visitor