Rome:Italy's Chamber of Deputies has approved the government's third and final confidence vote on an electoral reform bill, allowing for a final secret ballot to take place on Thursday.

According to Anadolu Agency, lawmakers supported the confidence motion on Article 3 with a vote of 228-144, with three abstentions. This provision involves the redrawing of several electoral constituencies in South Tyrol, including areas like Merano, Bressanone, and Bolzano.

On Tuesday, the lower house had already passed confidence motions on Articles 1 and 2, which pertain to the electoral systems for both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. Additionally, on Wednesday, Article 8 was approved with a unanimous 214-0 vote, with opposition parties choosing to abstain. This particular provision allows voting away from one's residence for family caregivers and did not have a confidence motion attached.

The reform has already been passed by the Senate and returned to the lower house after amendments, although it has been met with significant criticism from opposition parties. The proposed changes include introducing voter preferences alongside fixed lead candidates on party lists and modifying electoral rules.

Women's associations in Modena have appealed to President Sergio Mattarella, urging him to return the legislation to parliament if he finds any constitutional issues. They argue that the candidate selection rules could undermine equal access to elected office. Additionally, a network opposing the reform is preparing legal challenges, aiming for a referral to the Constitutional Court once the law is enacted.

These parliamentary votes occur amid discussions about potential early elections in May. However, Deputy Prime Minister and Forza Italia leader Antonio Tajani has expressed his party's preference for completing the current parliamentary term.