Italian Ethos: Renzi rules out government role if he loses referendum

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said on Thursday he would not take any part in efforts to form a temporary or technocratic government if he loses next month's referendum on constitutional reform.


Renzi has promised to resign if he loses the vote, and with the majority of polls pointing to that outcome, attention has focused on what may happen after the Dec. 4 ballot.

Many observers expect a temporary government to be formed, charged with drafting a new electoral system, or a so-called "technical" government of experts without party affiliation.

Renzi said the electoral law would have to be changed whatever the outcome of the referendum, but indicated he would not be the person to re-write the legislation if his flagship constitutional reform is rejected.

"I can't be someone who negotiates a deal with the other parties to create a little government or one with a limited goal (to change the electoral system)," he told radio station RTL.

"I'm not willing to take part in old-style political games. Either we change or I have no role to play," he said.
  [Reuters]
17/11/16
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