Milan, Lombardy, Italy – Speculation is rife in Milan following former Mayor Letizia Moratti’s statement at a Forza Italia conference, where she suggested that the party’s candidate for the upcoming municipal elections is among the attendees. The remark, made at the Fondazione Rovati in Corso Venezia, has ignited a search for the future occupant of Palazzo Marino’s top seat.
The Search for Forza Italia’s Candidate
Moratti’s declaration, “Among the thirty distinguished speakers here today is Forza Italia’s mayoral candidate,” immediately set off a flurry of hushed conversations and glances among those present. The focus quickly turned to prominent academic figures, many of whom were featured speakers at the event.
Rectors Deny Mayoral Ambitions
Marina Brambilla, Rector of the State University of Milan, was among the first to be questioned. When asked if she was a potential candidate, Brambilla firmly denied it, stating, “I am rector until 2030. I have an ironclad alibi.” However, whispers suggest that Forza Italia had previously approached her to gauge her availability for the mayoral race. It is reported that Brambilla remained hesitant, indicating that such a move would require the full support of the entire center-right coalition, not just Forza Italia, and significant time for preparation. She also cited her ongoing commitments, including the upcoming inauguration of a new campus in Mind.
Giovanna Iannantuoni, the former Rector of Bicocca University, also dismissed the possibility. Despite no longer leading the university, which could free her to accept such a role, she denied any mayoral aspirations. When pressed by journalists about her consistent presence at Forza Italia events, and even a recent format organized by Pierfrancesco Maran of the Democratic Party, Iannantuoni explained, “I am always available to discuss Milan.” She has previously been mentioned as a potential candidate for the center-left.
Ferruccio Resta, the former Rector of the Polytechnic University, was another name in the mix. Gabriele Albertini, a former mayor, revealed, “He was our candidate until some time ago. Salvini immediately took possession of him.” However, at a League party event, Resta clarified that he did not wish to hold the “keys to the city” in the future. When asked if his name should still be included in candidate speculation, he jokingly replied, “Football transfer markets greatly excite citizens. I continue to work for Milan.” Albertini indicated that Resta had declined the offer some time ago due to personal reasons. Resta himself had recently put forward the name of Antonio Civita, owner of Panino Giusto, though Civita’s candidacy appears to lack sufficient support within the center-right due to his relatively lower public profile.
Gianmario Verona, the former Rector of Bocconi University, has also withdrawn his name from consideration for now.
Forza Italia’s Strategy and Coalition Dynamics
The mystery surrounding the candidate continues, with many believing it is still too early and imprudent for anyone to declare their intentions openly. However, the conference successfully stimulated discussion within the center-right regarding Milan’s future. The coalition’s internal dynamics remain a key factor. While Forza Italia advocates for a civic candidate to secure victory, ‘Noi Moderati’ (We Moderates) holds a differing view.
Mariastella Gelmini of ‘Noi Moderati’ stated, “I believe Maurizio Lupi is the best name.” Riccardo Truppo, group leader for Fratelli d’Italia, emphasized, “It’s not mandatory for the candidate to be a civic one.” Samuele Piscina, provincial secretary of the League, called for “an immediate coalition table” to resolve these differences.
The current political maneuvering highlights the complexities of forming a united front for the upcoming municipal elections in Milan. The search for a candidate who can garner broad support across the center-right coalition continues, with various factions advocating for different profiles and strategies.
