NAPLES, Campania – Roberto Fico, tasked with forming the new Campania regional government, is engaged in a strenuous effort to finalize his cabinet by December 29. This date marks the first meeting of the Campania Regional Council, which will also elect its president. Fico has been holding a series of meetings at Palazzo Santa Lucia with the eight groups that supported him, aiming to distribute key positions among his allies.
The Proposed Distribution of Assessors
Fico’s proposed scheme for the ten assessor positions is as follows:
- Three assessors for the Democratic Party (PD), which is the leading party in the region.
- Two assessors for the Five Star Movement (Cinquestelle).
- One assessor each for Avs, Italia Viva, De Luca’s “A Testa alta” list, the Socialists, and Mastella.
Fico expressed gratitude to the representatives of the political and civic forces, stating, “It was a constructive discussion, focused on the priorities that will guide the government’s action for the Campania Region.” He emphasized the goal of forming a council that can effectively address the needs of Campania’s citizens and future challenges, highlighting the importance of competence, professionalism, and experience.
Challenges and Key Negotiations
Despite the positive rhetoric, the process is fraught with complexities. One significant point of contention is the selection of a representative for Vincenzo De Luca, who is reportedly pushing for either his former vice-president, Fulvio Bonavitacola, or the outgoing budget assessor, Ettore Cinque.
Fico’s discussions began with Clemente Mastella of “Noi di Centro,” who had previously criticized Fico’s decision not to appoint elected councilors to the cabinet, a move that would exclude his son, Pellegrino. Following their meeting, Mastella described the conversation as “constructive,” acknowledging Fico’s rationale for excluding elected officials from the executive.
The Democratic Party, as the largest party in the region, is also vying for the vice-presidency of the council and the presidency of the Regional Council. Massimiliano Manfredi, brother of the Mayor of Naples and president of Anci, Gaetano, is a strong candidate for the latter position. Meanwhile, Fico’s own “Fico presidente” list is expected to forgo an assessor position to maintain equilibrium within the coalition. Fico himself is anticipated to retain the crucial and highly sought-after health portfolio.
Upcoming Deadlines and Political Implications
The deadline of December 29 looms large, as the successful formation of the government by this date is crucial for the smooth functioning of the Regional Council. The ongoing negotiations underscore the delicate balance of power and the various interests at play within the broad coalition that supports Fico. The outcome will significantly shape the political landscape of Campania for the coming years.
Source: https://napoli.corriere.it/notizie/politica/25_dicembre_23/il-tour-de-force-di-roberto-fico-vede-tutti-gli-alleati-ma-la-giunta-resta-un-rebus-18ff2c62-3e2c-4c25-b29a-ae5935e7fxlk.shtml
