The Italian government erupts as the split between Conte and Renzi deepens

Italy Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has admitted he underestimated the impact of electioneering will have in the functioning of the government. EPA

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte faces a standoff with his coalition partner and former prime minister Matteo Renzi this week that could topple his government even as he struggles to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

The strained relations between the two men have deteriorated significantly in recent weeks, with Renzi calling for sweeping changes in plans to restart the economy with a demand that Conte gives up his control of the secret services.

The prime minister resisted the pressure, saying last week that he was ready to confront Renzi in Parliament, effectively challenging him to act on his recent threats and withdraw from the coalition, causing a crisis in its time.

CTM NEWS

3 January 2021