Italy Sees First Government Resignations After Referendum Setback

The first political consequences of the referendum defeat are unfolding inside the Italian government, with a wave of resignations and mounting pressure on several senior officials. The crisis follows a sharp political setback that has triggered urgent meetings throughout the morning at the highest levels of government.

At the centre of the storm is the resignation of Undersecretary for Justice Andrea Delmastro Delle Vedove, who announced his departure after days of controversy. In a statement, Delmastro said he had submitted his “irrevocable resignation” from his post, stressing that he had “always fought against organised crime” and had acted responsibly once he became aware of an “error” he made. He insisted he had done nothing improper and accepted responsibility “in the interest of the nation” as well as out of respect for the government and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

The resignation is not an isolated case. Giusi Bartolozzi, head of cabinet at the Justice Ministry led by Carlo Nordio, is also stepping down amid political pressure. Sources within the ruling Brothers of Italy party described the moves as driven by “political opportunity” in the aftermath of the referendum result.

Bartolozzi had already sparked controversy after a television interview in which she said that a “Yes” vote would “free us from magistrates,” describing them as a “firing squad,” remarks that fuelled criticism from the opposition and legal circles.

Meanwhile, attention is also focused on Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, who is reportedly under increasing pressure but is currently resisting calls to resign. She is facing ongoing legal and financial scrutiny related to her company Visibilia and alleged misuse of COVID-era furlough schemes. Political sources suggest discussions are ongoing about her future, though no final decision has been made.

The reshuffle comes as Prime Minister Meloni seeks to project stability after the referendum defeat, with government insiders saying she ordered a series of urgent meetings to respond decisively to the political fallout.

Opposition parties have seized on the turmoil. Democratic Party justice spokesperson Debora Serracchiani called the resignations “a necessary but delayed act,” accusing the government of having kept officials in place for political convenience until after the vote. Angelo Bonelli of the Green and Left Alliance went further, claiming voters had effectively “sent Delmastro and Bartolozzi home” and demanding Santanchè’s resignation as well.

Democratic Senate leader Francesco Boccia questioned the timing of the resignations, asking what had changed so suddenly and whether the referendum result had forced the government’s hand. He also called for Justice Minister Nordio to report to Parliament.

As pressure builds and further resignations remain possible, the government faces a widening political and institutional crisis in the aftermath of the referendum defeat.