Ankara:Italy's Chamber of Deputies has granted final approval to a controversial electoral reform, which is supported by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. The reform passed with a 227 to 164 vote, as reported by public broadcaster Rai.

According to Anadolu Agency, the lower house passed the legislation in a secret ballot on its third reading, after amendments made by the Senate. Prime Minister Meloni welcomed the result, viewing it as a sign of unity within her ruling center-right coalition. She emphasized this unity on social media, stating that the coalition is committed to fulfilling its promises to the citizens.

The reform introduces a proportional electoral system with a seat bonus for the leading political force or coalition that secures at least 42% of the vote. It also mandates that coalitions must declare their candidate for prime minister prior to elections. Other changes include the reintroduction of preferential voting alongside party-selected candidates at the top of electoral lists, and provisions for voters, including family caregivers, to vote away from their registered residences.

Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani commented that the vote demonstrated the majority's solidarity and its intention to seek another five years in power.

However, opposition parties have criticized the reform, particularly concerning candidate selection and women's representation. Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein pointed out that less than one in five lawmakers would be elected through preferential votes, arguing that the system would restrict voter choice by favoring party-selected list leaders. Five Star Movement leader Giuseppe Conte echoed these concerns, warning that over 80% of the next parliament's members would be decided by party leaderships, potentially resulting in male-dominated list leaders.

A group opposing the reform plans to file legal challenges once the legislation is enacted, aiming to bring the issue before the Constitutional Court.