Italian prosecutors in Palermo have requested a six-year prison sentence for far-right Lega leader Matteo Salvini for allegedly kidnapping migrants by preventing a rescue ship from docking in Lampedusa in 2019. Salvini, who was interior minister at the time, imposed a “closed ports” policy to refuse entry to charity ships rescuing migrants in distress.
The prosecutors accused Salvini of leaving a ship operated by Open Arms stranded at sea for 19 days, resulting in desperate actions by some migrants onboard. Despite the potential consequences, Salvini defended his actions, stating that defending borders from illegal immigrants is not a crime.
Salvini’s lawyer will present a defence plea in Palermo, with a potential sentence expected by the end of the month. The current deputy premier and transport minister has received support from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her government ministers.
Meloni, who leads the far-right Brothers of Italy party, is facing challenges within her government, including a recent scandal involving a former Italian Culture Minister and tensions over citizenship law reforms with coalition partners. Additionally, her European Commissioner pick, Raffaele Fitto, may face tough questions during parliamentary hearings.
The case against Salvini marks a significant moment in Italy’s ongoing debate on immigration and border control policies. The outcome of the trial could have long-lasting implications for Salvini’s political career and the broader political landscape in Italy.
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