PD delegates gather in Rome to amend statute and extend Schlein's term

The Democratic Party’s parliamentary assembly gathered at the striking Nuvola structure in Rome’s Eur area to consider a change to the party statute that would enable the extension of secretary Elly Schlein’s term, which would otherwise end in 2027. Organisers emphasized physical attendance, and several northern provincial federations pledged travel subsidies of up to 150 euros for non-office-holding delegates, stressing the exceptional nature of the support.

Igor Taruffi, head of organisation, warned against any absences and called on Rome-adjacent groups to bring both voting delegates and non-voting militants. After the 2023 primaries, Schlein commands a large majority of delegates, while the reformist bloc, around fifty members and led by former defence minister Lorenzo Guerini, plans to abstain from proposing an alternative document and will only vote on the statute amendment. The proposed wording removes an automatic extension clause and leaves the decision to the assembly, setting the stage for internal debate on policy issues such as support for Ukraine and alliance positions.