The Zaia era is over: "Vannacci vice-secretary? It's not a problem"


ANSA photo
The interview
The general alongside the doge: "His positions may not be liked. But the League is a party that has historically guaranteed great freedom to its members". Interview with Alberto Villanova, leader of the League group in Veneto
On the same topic:
“Vannacci has embraced the Lega line,” says Alberto Villanova , Zaia ’s group leader in Veneto. Not vice versa? “The moment he took our membership card at the congress, he shared our commitments, objectives and demands. Even autonomy.” And yet the MEP said that the reform of Title V was more than enough. “But now he has clarified things. Vannacci could have created more friction as an independent than within a party regulation. He is also doing a great job in Brussels, opposing rearmament or the green deal. These are historic themes of the Lega.” And in fact Salvini wants to make him deputy secretary already. “It wouldn’t be a problem. In fact, it could prove to be an added value.” Pax tibi Roberto .
At this point a doubt arises, after years of internal grumbling and protests. How is it possible that suddenly Zaia's Veneto - pro-government, pro-productivity, even progressive on civil rights - welcomes the general's grim sovereignism with open arms? "Everyone thinks we're crazy, in hindsight they'll agree with us," Villanova smiles, speaking to Il Foglio . "Even for a moderate like me, seeing how the European Union has brought community industry to its knees to the advantage of Chinese industry is unacceptable: being against certain absurd decisions does not mean being retrograde, far right or against the EU as such. We have always pursued common sense policies and will continue to do so." The common sense of the Decima, Vannacci would say. "You may not like its positions. But the League is a party that has historically guaranteed great freedom to its members. Especially on sensitive issues such as the end of life: I am proud to be a member of a movement that has not prevented me from pursuing a law in which I still believe," and which Zaia would be ready to transform into a decree. “There are different sensibilities within the Carroccio. The important thing is to express them with respect: I am not aware of any offensive comments from Vannacci recently” .
So full steam ahead. The general at the side of the doge. But isn't it possible that perhaps, given the end of an era, Vannacci is more useful to La Liga than La Liga is to Vannacci? "La Liga remains and will remain La Liga", assures the regional councilor. "And then the federal congress reaffirmed autonomy at the top of the party agenda, also with the approval of the delegates from the south. It is a model for making Italy work as a whole . Our flag remains firm, the Venetians have seen us govern for fifteen years with Zaia and they know us. We will not change our approach". And yet there are those who brood and those who leave. Historic militants, young promises on the territory. "Timescales that make you smile. And the doubts of some about our alleged repositioning are a waste of time: we have been consistent for years ".
The voters will decide in a few months: on Thursday the Council of State established that the vote will take place in the fall, by November 20. “And we will be ready,” Villanova declared, responding to the allies who are claiming the candidate. “Our first option is to keep the center-right united and we are working towards this. But if in Rome there is no political sensitivity to understand the needs of our region, we will take note of it.” Translated – said and repeated –, the League would also run alone. “We have many resources in the territory. Administrators, businesses, trade associations: it is certainly not a problem to present ourselves with four lists. Including Zaia’s.” The terror of the Melonians. “I don’t understand why. Zaia’s civic list would benefit the entire coalition: we do not veto anyone and we expect the same respect. The president’s consensus is transversal and must be protected. Woe betide anyone who squanders it .” And what will happen to the president instead? "Zaia will always be our Doge. And he will participate in these elections one thousand percent: he will decide together with the secretary Stefani how and in what role to give a hand to his team. But I am sure that he will fight in the name of the Venetians". Otherwise Vannacci will do it. Bingo .
More on these topics:
ilmanifesto