Italy's justice referendum tests PM Meloni and divided opposition

A forthcoming Italian referendum on judicial reform will test right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's political strength and could give the fragmented opposition the impetus to forge a broad alliance ahead of next year's general election.



Italians will vote on March 22-23 on a proposal to separate the careers of judges and public prosecutors, splitting the self-ruling High Council of the Judiciary (CSM) into two bodies whose members would be chosen by lot rather than elected.



Though centred on the governance of the judiciary, the referendum has become a political showdown between the government-backed 'Yes' camp and the opposition, which supports 'No'. There is no turnout quorum required to validate the vote.



Analysts say most people are likely to cast their ballots based on political preferences, paying little attention to the substance, after a bruising campaign marked by unfounded claims over the potential impact of the reform from both sides.



"Only a small minority of Italians knows much about the issue. Many will look instead to party and coalition leaders, who are all trying to mobilise their voters to win," said Fabrizio Masia, the head of pollster EMG.